Overview

• Four Unitree G1 humanoid robots competed in one-on-one kickboxing matches at the China Media Group World Robot Competition in Hangzhou on May 25, 2025.
• The 1.32-meter, 35-kilogram G1 models executed punches and kicks under remote control using AI-powered motion algorithms trained on professional kickboxing data.
• Competitors scored one point for arm strikes and three points for leg strikes with penalties for knockdowns and an instant loss if a robot failed to rise within eight seconds.
• Industry experts hailed the event as a milestone for China’s humanoid robotics capabilities and said it will accelerate advances in perception, control and execution technologies.
• Organizers have announced a full-size humanoid robot combat match in Shenzhen this December even as past malfunctions raise ongoing safety concerns.