Unitree Robotics’ machines showcase agility and precision, stirring excitement and concerns over AI’s future
May 27, 2025: In an unprecedented spectacle that could be straight out of a sci-fi movie, humanoid robots have entered the ring—literally! For the first time ever, a kick-boxing match between humanoid robots was staged in Hangzhou, China, as part of the World Robot Competition organized by China Media Group.
🇨🇳 Robot gets KO'd in the world's first humanoid ROBOT FIGHTING tournament in China pic.twitter.com/Abkux5FZnj
— Dott. Orikron 🇵🇹 (@orikron) May 25, 2025
Developed by Unitree Robotics, the agile bots showcased their impressive precision and combat skills in both exhibition and competitive matches, much to the amazement of onlookers. Videos from the event show the robots trading punches and kicks with startling accuracy, demonstrating just how far robotics and AI technology have advanced.
Social media was flooded with reactions to the video. One user joked, “The part that confuses me most is the referee in the ring,” while another quipped, “We laughed when robot boxing showed up in movies. Now it’s here—no CGI, no props, just real metal-throwing punches.”
Some were more circumspect, with a comment stating, “This isn’t just entertainment—this is the birth of a new species. The first punches of a future that won’t need us to throw them.” However, not everyone was impressed. One user pointed out, “It’s the same robots fighting each other, so there’s nothing different to observe from each. It’s nowhere near autonomous; clearly remote-controlled.”
Unitree Robotics has previously made headlines for incidents that sparked fears about AI safety. In one case, a robot lashed out at its handlers, and in another, a robot went rogue at the Spring Festival Gala in Tianjin, charging at a crowd. Tesla has also faced similar concerns when a robot allegedly attacked an engineer in Texas. These incidents underscore the importance of rigorous testing and oversight in the fast-paced world of robotics.
As these robots exchange their first competitive punches, they not only entertain but also raise questions about the implications of such rapid advancements in AI and robotics.
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humanoid robots, kick-boxing match, China, Unitree Robotics, World Robot Competition, robotics, AI, combat robots, Hangzhou