Panch, Kick and Code: China hosted the world’s first humanoid robot kickboxing match
In an incident of the first time, Humanoid robots took the center stage in a kickboxing match in Hangzo, China. China Media Group (CMG) World Robot Competition-Part of MECHA Fighing Series, the competition was held on 25 May and marked the onset of robotic fighters in a full fighter game.The robot was developed by units robotics, a Chinese tech company known for its advanced humanoid machines. Four units G1 robots participated in the fight, each weighs about 132 centimeters long and 35 kg, the Asia Times reported.They were controlled by human trainers using joystick, and the match was broadcast by China Central Television (CCTV).While this incident created enthusiasm among the audience, a social media user compelly commented, “The part that confuses me the most is referee in the ring.”In the video of the match, the robot exchanged punches and kicks with surprising coordination. Although the strikes were more like soft push than the actual hits, the movements displayed impressive balance and speed for machines.The match was part of a big attempt to test and show the growing capabilities of AI and robotics in dynamic settings. Earlier this year, a unitary robot was seen aggressively reacting to his handler during a demo in a viral video, leading to increased security concerns. In another case, during the February Spring Festival Gala in Tianjin, a robot allegedly accused a mob, making the attendees dangerous.A recent incidents, including a case at Tesla’s factory in Texas, where a robot allegedly injured a worker, has created an increasing concern over the possible risks of AI security and advanced robotics. Experts have indicated software glitter and insufficient testing as general causes, which highlight the need for strict quality control in AI development.
