Iron Boulder

Legal regulations: regulation-m-a

Iron Boulder is the Paradox Rock/Psychic attacker that brings genuine speed pressure to Regulation M-A teams. Its speed tier is excellent, letting it outrun most of the format's non-restricted attackers, and its Attack stat, backed by Quark Drive's speed boost, makes it a reliable physical threat. Its Rock STAB pressures the format's Flying and Ice cores, and its coverage options hit the Steel-types that resist it. Its weaknesses are the ones Rock-types always carry — vulnerable to Fighting, Ground, Steel and Water coverage — and its bulk is not designed to absorb hits, so it relies on positioning and speed support. It also depends on its Quark Drive boost to reach its best speed tier, which means its item and terrain support matter. It functions best as a fast breaker that pressures from turn one or a mid-game cleaner that punishes weakened boards. Iron Boulder pairs well with terrain setters and with partners that handle the Fighting and Ground threats it invites. It is a reliable, straightforward physical speed threat for aggressive teams.

Use this page to understand Iron Boulder's role in the current VGC metagame. Check the base stats and Level 50 benchmarks to plan your EV spreads. Review common moves, items, abilities and Tera types to see what the community uses most. The partners section shows which Pokémon pair well with Iron Boulder, while counters and checks highlight what to watch out for in team preview.

Last updated: July 2026 (Regulation Set M-A). Data is based on available competitive trends and editorial review.

Iron Boulder performs best when its role is clearly defined in team preview. As a Speed Control Pokémon, focus on positioning it where it can execute its job without being forced into unfavorable exchanges.

When teambuilding, pair Iron Boulder with Pokémon that cover its type weaknesses (see counters section below) and provide the speed control or redirection it needs to function. Review the common moves and items section for established sets, then adjust based on your team's specific needs.