Oh, I just thought of something.
If Lucian talked about the Champ League, there's a super high chance he'll win. Why would he talk about it then the writers have Ash lose? That idea would turn to trash. Seriously.
Also, he may have won the Sinnoh League (I don't know about the Champ League though), but maybe he was interested in a new region, and go there immediately. Curiosity kills the cat. (I don't know what that means, but whatever...) Who said the champion of the Sinnoh League can't explore anymore?
As for Paul... Once he loses, he's no longer useful. They might trash him like they did to Gary. :(