Robotics startup has real human vs. robot cage match, California responds with cease-and-desist order
The California State Athletic Commission intervened when it saw a human facing off with a humanoid robot inside the fighting ring.
California has issued a cease-and-desist order against a robotics startup called REK after it hosted a human vs. robot fight in San Francisco. The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) demanded that REK stop holding, promoting, or sponsoring these unauthorized fights, stating that organizing them without a license is a misdemeanor.
The incident occurred on September 18, 2026, when YouTuber Frankie LaPenna entered a fighting cage and faced off with three different robots. The cease-and-desist letter refers to this specific event, which took place at the same time as REK's first-ever human vs. humanoid robot cage fight. The fight prompted concerns over safety and ethical issues due to the inherent danger of a human facing off against a robot, as well as potential risks to the combatant's well-being.
While the fight's purpose may have been primarily promotional, it still raised red flags for CSAC, who regulates combat sports to ensure fairness and safety. REK's events are marketed as "Real pilots, real punches. Humanoid robots in brutal, full-contact combat," and the company even offers private events with robots facing off in three rounds.
The case brings to light the similarities between this real-life event and the concept depicted in the film Real Steel, where a discarded humanoid boxing robot rises through the ranks and challenges the reigning champion. The cease-and-desist order highlights the complexities and potential risks associated with blending technology, entertainment, and human safety.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Hardware's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
