Humanoid robots pummel YouTuber in cage matches, California tells startup to stop the fights
Last month, YouTuber Frankie LaPenna fought three different robots from REK, including a distinctly Terminator-like machine. At one point, the robot gave LaPenna a brutal kick to the face that sent him into the side of the cage, while another kick to the stomach sent the influencer flying onto his... Read Entire Article
In a shocking turn of events, a California startup hosting cage matches featuring humanoid robots has been warned by state officials to cease such activities. Last month, YouTuber Frankie LaPenna participated in fights against three different robots from the robotics company REK. The encounters were intense, with the robots delivering powerful kicks to LaPenna's face and stomach, sending him flying around the cage.
The California State Athletic Commission, concerned about the legality of such events, issued a cease-and-desist letter on September 30, demanding REK stop hosting, promoting, or sponsoring these matches. According to the letter, any boxing or martial arts contest involving humans in California requires approval from the Athletic Commission, and failure to obtain a license can result in a misdemeanor.
REK CEO Cix Liv responded to the letter with pride, stating they made it boys. The letter emphasizes that promoting or participating in such contests without a license is illegal in California. Despite the legal ramifications, the robots seem to be advancing rapidly. Military investigations are underway, with the US Army selecting five companies for a humanoid robot competition, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announcing a new command to expand the use of autonomous and robotic capabilities in the armed forces. China is also moving humanoid robots from labs to military training grounds.
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