Joey uses complex maneuvers involving Blue Flame Swordsman and The Claw of Hermos to stay in the game.
Episode 173 of the Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters series, titled (or " Bitter Victory " in the Japanese version), serves as the emotional climax of the duel between Joey Wheeler and Mai Valentine during the "Waking the Dragons" arc. The Duel of Redemption and Sacrifice Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters Episode 173
Mai reaches a state where a single direct attack with her Harpie Lady Sisters would win the duel and claim Joey's soul. However, as she looks at Joey, memories of their past—including his support at Duelist Kingdom and Battle City—flood back, causing her to hesitate. The Bitter Conclusion Joey uses complex maneuvers involving Blue Flame Swordsman
Episode 173 is widely regarded as a turning point for Mai Valentine’s character arc. It transitions her from a misguided antagonist seeking strength back into a determined ally, now fueled by a "roaring rampage of revenge" against Dartz for what happened to Joey. The episode reinforces the series' core theme that is stronger than magical influence, even when that realization comes with a heavy price. The Duel of Redemption and Sacrifice Mai reaches
Because Joey can no longer continue, the duel effectively ends. Despite Mai’s refusal to strike the final blow, Joey is declared the loser, and the Seal of Orichalcos claims his soul.
The episode centers on a physically and mentally exhausted Joey attempting to reach the "true" Mai, who has been corrupted by the Seal of Orichalcos and the influence of Dartz. Despite being battered from his previous battle with Valon, Joey refuses to back down, viewing the duel not as a game to be won, but as a final effort to restore his friend's lost spirit.