American startups were asked to stop organizing human-robot fights

In a letter posted to social media by Cix Liv, founder and CEO of REK, this week, the California State Sports Commission (CSAC) reminded the company to stop organizing, promoting, and sponsoring matches of this type because they do not have a license.

The text refers to a series of human-robot cage matches that REK sponsored on September 18, which took place between YouTuber Frankie LaPenna and three humanoid robots in San Francisco. Specifically, after fighting the Unitree company's G1 robot, LaPenna in turn competed against two larger robots, the T800 series of the Chinese company EngineAI.

EngineAI said that the standard T800 is about 1.73 m tall and weighs 75-84 kg depending on the version. According to REK, the robot used in their match was modified, 1.83 m tall, with a more intimidating appearance, reminiscent of the robot in the Terminator movie.

However, the robots do not fight completely automatically. Reflex Arc, REK's technology partner, said the operator uses a virtual reality (VR) device or a handle to give commands to the robot in real time. They are also equipped with AI to assist with balance and performing trained movements.

According to Fox News, REK has not yet released a video recording of the entire match. In some short segments released, the T800 sometimes knocked down opponents. However, Liv later claimed LaPenna had recovered, continued fighting, and won.

Tom's Hardware commented that, although it is unclear whether this was a sports competition or a performance, the match helped REK become more famous. When sharing letters from CSAC, Liv also seemed quite comfortable. "We did it, boys," he wrote.

Dù tính chất trận đấu giữa LaPenna và robot hình người là gì, việc CSAC can thiệp được đánh giá hợp lý. This agency regulates combat sports activities in which at least one side is human to ensure fairness and safety. CSAC sẽ không can thiệp nếu trận đấu ngày 18/9 chỉ diễn ra giữa robot. According to Futurism, the agency also does not object to all matches between humans and robots in general, but condemns the fact that the organizer has not applied for the necessary license.

REK has been preparing for the battle between humans and robots for a long time. Previously, the company held many live matches, where players controlled humanoid robots to fight each other. They also have a simulation system to help players get familiar with the operation before controlling the real robot.