Pokemon GO Rocket Grunt: The Lineup Changes & Giovanni's New Pokemon

We are in for another quest to rescue a shadow legendary from Giovanni, as another takeover event is on the horizon. After the success of Team GO Rocket Takeover in the Delightful Days season, Pokemon GO was quick to introduce another GO Rocket takeover sooner rather than later. While the jury is still out on whether it will be the only takeover of the Tales of Transformation season, we have all the details of what we can expect when we face the Pokemon GO Rocket grunt, the leaders, and Giovanni.

In this guide, we will take a look at what lineup you can expect based on the dialogue of a Pokemon GO Rocket Grunt. Moreover, we will also take a look at the lineup changes in Arlo, Sierra, and Cliff, along with Giovanni.

Pokemon GO Rocket Grunt Lineup announcement

While the Team GO Rocket Grunt September 2025 lineup changes were expected in the community due to the game's pattern, it was not until today that the confirmation came.

@PokemonGOHubNet took it to their official X to make the Pokemon GO Rocket Grunt Lineup announcement live on 16th September, 2025, around 11:30 AM (IST). Given the bonuses of the event, the possible shiny encounters, and the chance to have a great IV shadow Pokemon, it is understandable that the community is buzzing with excitement.

Moreover, the event aligns with the Pokemon GO Psychic Spectacular event, which gives the ½ hatch distance event bonus. Naturally, the trainers will stack up the 12km eggs and enjoy the hefty stardust and the possibility of hatching a shiny female Salandit. Check out our Psychic Spectacular event guide if you wish to learn more about the event.

Pokemon GO Rocket Grunt Lineup Changes

Before we get to the leaders, check out our Team GO Rocket Grunt guide that includes the lineup based on their dialogues:

Normal does not mean weak

Do you know how hot Pokemon fire breath can get?

These waters are treacherous! (Female)

These waters are treacherous! (Male)

Get ready to be shocked!

Don't Tangle With Us!

You're gonna be frozen in your tracks

The buff physique isn't just for show!

Coiled and ready to strike!

You'll be defeated into the ground!

Battle against my Flying-type Pokemon!

Are you scared of psychics that use unseen power?

Go, my super bug Pokemon!

Let's rock and roll!

Ke..ke..ke..ke..ke..ke!

ROAR!..How'd that sound?

Wherever there is light, there is also shadow

You're no match for my iron will!

Check out my cute Pokemon!

Winning is for winners

Winning is for winners

Fooled ya, twerp

Team GO Rocket Lineup Changes for Leaders and Giovanni

In addition to the Team GO Rocket Grunt lineups changes, there are changes among the leaders' opening Pokemon.

• Cliff will feature shadow Larvitar.
• Arlo will feature shadow Wobbuffet.
• Sierra will feature shadow Feebas.

Team GO Rocket Boss Giovanni has a change in his lineup, too. Instead of Shadow Giratina, his last Pokemon will be Shadow Tornadus (Incarnate). Check out our Pokemon GO guide to know more about the game.