World’s First Humanoid Fighting Competition Held in China
On Sunday, 25 May, Hangzhou hosted the world’s first humanoid robot fighting competition.
The event, organized by China Media Group in collaboration with Unitree Robotics, showcased the latest advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence.
Meet the Unitree G1 Fighters
The competition was organized by China Media Group in collaboration with Unitree Robotics, the competition featured advanced humanoid robots engaging in kickboxing matches.
The robots, known as Unitree G1, stood 1.32 meters tall and weighed approximately 35 kilograms.
G1 robots demonstration
The G1 robots demonstrated a range of combat techniques, including:
- Left and right hooks
- Side-kicks
- Swivel-kicks
Though controlled by human operators and showing some repetitive motion, the robots were designed to learn from experience and improve performance over time—a key step toward autonomous robot combat.
China’s Robotics Push
This event aligns with China’s broader ambition to become a global leader in robotics.
Further competitions are planned, including a life-sized humanoid robot contest in Shenzhen later this year.
The focus is not only on entertainment but also on deploying humanoid robots in sectors such as:
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Public services
Background of Unitree Robotics
Based in Hangzhou, Unitree Robotics is one of China’s top developers in the field.
The company previously gained national acclaim when its robots performed a traditional folk dance during the Lunar New Year Gala, showcasing their balance, rhythm, and agility.
News Gist
Hangzhou hosted the world’s first humanoid robot fighting competition on May 25, featuring Unitree G1 robots in kickboxing bouts.
Organized by China Media Group and Unitree Robotics, the event showcased AI and combat skills.
It highlights China’s ambition to lead in robotics across entertainment, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.