Commander

Commander is a unique ability that activates exclusively in double battles when Tatsugiri enters the field alongside an ally Dondozo. Upon activation, Tatsugiri enters Dondozo's mouth, becoming untargetable for the remainder of the battle (or until Dondozo faints). While inside, Tatsugiri boosts all of Dondozo's stats by two stages: Attack, Defense, Special Attack, Special Defense, and Speed.

The commanded Dondozo becomes significantly more powerful while Tatsugiri cannot be hit by any attacks, abilities, or status moves. If Dondozo faints, Tatsugiri re-emerges onto the field. Tatsugiri cannot be forced out by moves like Whirlwind while inside Dondozo.

Commander is the signature ability of Tatsugiri, introduced in Generation IX. It only works with Dondozo specifically — no other ally Pokemon triggers the ability. In singles, Commander has no effect. This ability creates one of the most distinctive and synergistic partnerships in competitive Pokemon doubles.