This actually pretty interesting when you think about it. I mean, Ash just freaking jumped without hesitation and put his body below Pikachu's in what might be his own death just for the sake of giving Pikachu a chance at surviving that fall. Then again, Ash has died a few times before so maybe death isn't a big deal to him.

First thought: Holy fuck
I need to start watching this

Second thought: He'll be fine, Team Rocket do this shit all the time