Machop is one of those classic Pokemon that a lot of players like to add early in their journey, especially if they want a strong physical attacker later in the game. In Pokemon Legends: Z-A, Machop is still the same hardworking Fighting-type we know—small body, big strength—but the way you find and raise it fits the flow of the new Wild Zone system.
This guide breaks down where to catch Machop, how to evolve it, and what to consider if you prefer getting one through trading or buying from a marketplace instead of hunting.

Machop is physically oriented, with solid HP and Attack, but noticeably weaker on the special side. It works best as a straightforward physical attacker or tanky frontline Pokemon, depending on your move choices and nature.
Base Stats:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| HP | 70 |
| Attack | 80 |
| Defense | 50 |
| Special Attack | 35 |
| Special Defense | 35 |
| Speed | 35 |
| Total | 305 |
Machop isn't particularly fast, but it hits hard and can take some hits. Once it evolves into Machoke and eventually Machamp, its offensive power spikes significantly.
Machop is found in two main Wild Zones, but both require story progress to access:
| Location | How to Unlock | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wild Zone 8 | Complete Main Mission 9: “Chase That Mysterious Pokemon!” | This is usually where players first encounter Machop. Expect it to roam in areas resembling rocky or training grounds. |
| Wild Zone 12 | Complete Main Mission 14: “Reaching Rank E” | Machop here may be a bit higher level. Good for players who want less training time before evolution. |
Tips for Catching:
If your goal is to evolve into Machoke quickly, try catching one around mid-level in Wild Zone 12 to save time.
If you don't have someone to trade with, most players use trading clubs or online groups. Some trading services also offer “trade back” support so you keep your evolved Machamp.
A small personal note: players often get stuck here because they don't want to lose their Pokemon. Make sure you trade with someone reputable or use a return-trade method.
Some players prefer not to deal with spawn RNG, leveling, or trade evolution hassles. In that case, getting Machop through a player marketplace can be a faster route—especially if you're aiming for forms like Shiny, Alpha, or Alpha Shiny.
U4GM is known for providing reliable delivery and supports custom requests, which makes it easier for players who want a specific nature, level, or move setup.
Typical pricing (for reference):
If you're collecting shinies or like building teams faster, buying Machop shiny pokemon can save time, especially since shiny hunting in Legends: Z-A can be hit-or-miss depending on the Wild Zone rotation.
| If you enjoy… | Then choose… |
|---|---|
| Exploring and discovering Pokemon yourself | Catch Machop in the Wild |
| Building a perfect team quickly | Buy one already trained or customized |
| Shiny hunting and flex collecting | Buy a Shiny/Alpha variant |
| Playing casually and not worrying about stats | Catch and evolve naturally |
There's no “right” answer—just go with the style that fits your play experience.
Machop is a strong early Fighting-type that continues paying off later in the game. Whether you prefer catching one in the Wild Zones or getting one already built for battle, it's a reliable and flexible Pokemon to have in your team. And once it becomes Machamp, you'll definitely feel the power.