Machamp-EX

Machamp-EX 90/98 was released in 2015 as part of the Ancient Origins expansion of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. This set introduced the Ancient Traits mechanic, which provided Pokémon with unique passive abilities, and expanded the presence of EX cards, a class of high-powered, high-HP Pokémon that awarded two prize cards to an opponent upon being knocked out. Machamp-EX was designed to capitalize on the character's long-standing popularity as one of the original Generation I Fighting-type powerhouses, serving as a flagship card for players focusing on aggressive, strength-oriented deck strategies.

The card features an ultra-rare holographic design characteristic of the XY-era print runs, utilizing a vertical striped foil pattern that became a hallmark of the Rare Ultra designation. It was illustrated by Eske Yoshinob, who utilized a dynamic, high-contrast digital art style to emphasize the physical mass and combat-ready posture of the four-armed Fighting type. While it saw moderate competitive use due to its 'Steedcharge' attack, it is now primarily prized by collectors for its aesthetic transition of a classic franchise character into the modern, full-art-style aesthetic of the mid-2010s.