When I was a child, I couldn't really watch the episodes in order, so I think I already knew Misty had Togepi when I got a chance to watch this episode. For this reason, I couldn't imagine anyone else getting that little egg creature. I was surprised when it wasn't Misty the one who won the tournament, but the writers still delibered a good explanation for her ending up keeping Togepi in the end.
And I can't understand when people say Meowth deserved the egg or are still salty about him not getting it lol He and the rest of Team Rocket kidnapped Togepi! Sure, he took good care of it and grew attached to it, but it is not different from a guy kidnapping a child and caring for them instead of their parents. Would the kidnapper have any right over the child just because they cared for them and even perhaps loved them? They still stole that child...
I'm actually surprised Ash & co let Meowth compete for the right to keep Togepi. Had it been me, I would've sent him and his teammates blasting off right away.
Anyway, I was so proud of Meowth for beating Onix! His love for Togepi gave him strenght! And it was equally fun to see Pikachu taking him out in a second hahaha.
Tough luck, Ash. No hatchling for you either!