Mega Rayquaza returns to Pokemon Go with a BIG change
Pokémon GO surprised trainers with a late‑afternoon announcement: Mega Rayquaza is coming back, but not through the usual raid rotation. Instead, the legendary dragon will be obtainable during a brand‑new, two‑day event called Ozone Ascent. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of the limited window.
Ozone Ascent Event Overview
- Dates: July 25 – July 26, 2026
- Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time on both days
- Core reward: Free Timed Research that grants a Meteorite, an encounter with Rayquaza, and additional bonuses.
The event is deliberately short, so plan to log in each day to complete the research before it expires at 8:00 p.m. on July 26.
Free Timed Research
The free research track provides:
- One Meteorite – required to teach Rayquaza the charged attack Dragon Ascent (a Flying‑type move).
- One Rayquaza encounter – a chance to catch a regular Rayquaza.
- No Mega Energy – you’ll need Mega Energy from another source to actually mega‑evolve the Pokémon.
Tip: Claim the research rewards before the 8:00 p.m. deadline on July 26, or you’ll lose the Meteorite.
Paid Timed Research (US $4.99 / ~AU $7.99)
For a modest fee you unlock a second research line that adds:
- An extra Meteorite (total 2)
- An extra Rayquaza encounter (total 2)
- Mega Energy – the only way to obtain Mega Energy for Rayquaza during this event.
If you already have enough Mega Energy from previous events, the free track may suffice. Otherwise, the paid track guarantees you can mega‑evolve immediately.
Mega Evolution Requirements Recap
- Meteorite → teaches Dragon Ascent (required for mega evolution).
- Mega Energy → fuels the mega evolution itself.
- Rayquaza → must have the move Dragon Ascent learned.
Only the paid research supplies Mega Energy, so budget accordingly.
Mystery Event Speculation (July 21 – July 27)
A separate, undisclosed event runs from July 21 to July 27 and overlaps the Ozone Ascent dates. It’s possible Rayquaza could appear in raids during that larger event, which would explain the limited research‑only distribution. Keep an eye on official channels for any raid announcements.
Professor Willow’s Assistant Pikachu Costume Event
- Date: July 21, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. local time
- Features:
- Shiny‑capable Assistant Pikachu (costume)
- Free Timed Research with encounters, Lucky Egg, Star Piece, and more
- Availability in snapshots, raids, and Field Research
- Team‑specific background art (Valor, Instinct, Mystic)
This cosmetic event is completely free and offers a great chance to add a shiny, themed Pikachu to your collection.
Personal Rayquaza Collection Highlights
The creator shared a quick tour of their Rayquaza stash, noting:
- A 2019 Hundo (perfect IV) – the oldest prized catch.
- A 2026 Mega‑evolved Rayquaza from last year’s event.
- Several high‑IV specimens (96 specimens kept for trading or future mega evolutions).
While not essential for the event, it illustrates how repeat events let trainers build a strong Rayquaza lineup over time.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The Ozone Ascent event gives every trainer a guaranteed path to a Meteorite and a Rayquaza encounter, with an optional paid tier for immediate mega evolution. Meanwhile, the Assistant Pikachu costume event adds a fun, free shiny hunt on July 21.
What’s your plan? Will you stick with the free research, invest in the paid track, or wait for potential raid appearances? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to claim your research before the deadline!