I have a neutral hatred for all Pokémon rivals, but there are a few that I have a modicum of respect for, at least:
- Hugh: He had no interest in 'being the best,' or even being your rival. His sole goal was to do right by his sister by rescuing the Purrloin that was taken from her.
- Hop: Perhaps the only rival with legitimate character development. Unlike his predecessor, Hau, Hop's consistent losses eventually get to him, and he is forced to look into himself, who he is, and what he wants out of life. In the end, he realizes it isn't Pokémon Battling that is truly his passion, but Pokémon Research.
- Marnie: Unlike literally every other rival in existence, Marnie is neither conceited, self-concerning, nor inappropriately happy. She is merely a trainer who legitimately wishes to better her skills and eventually become Champion. Her only flaw is the pressure she feels in being the hope of her hometown.
Now, did I get attached to any of these characters? Absolutely not. However, I will say Hop is the first and currently only rival I have ever felt strong emotion towards. I genuinely felt bad for him when he lost all his confidence and fell into [what appeared to be] a depression.