According to CMG, the competition not only represents a major breakthrough in AI integration into sports but also serves as a showcase of entirely domestically developed technology
The future of combat sports took a dramatic leap forward as the China Media Group (CMG) World Robot Competition – Mecha Fighting Series, the world’s first-ever humanoid robot fighting tournament, kicked off in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The historic event marks a new era in robotics, where cutting-edge technology meets live-action sport.
Dozens of combat-ready humanoid robots, including models developed by prominent Chinese firm Unitree Robotics, engaged in thrilling one-on-one battles in front of a livestream audience. These bots, capable of executing complex fighting techniques, showcased the rising capabilities of China’s robotics industry and its expanding global footprint in artificial intelligence (AI).
According to CMG, the competition not only represents a major breakthrough in AI integration into sports but also serves as a showcase of entirely domestically developed technology. It featured both exhibition and competitive bouts, including real-time matches where four human-operated teams controlled humanoid robots in a knockout-style boxing tournament.
“This is not just a tech demo; it’s the beginning of a new sports genre,” said a CMG spokesperson. “We’re seeing the physical manifestation of AI-driven combat — with real tactics, reflexes, and decision-making.”
The tournament exemplifies the rapid evolution of China’s humanoid robot sector. Long regarded as a niche area, the industry is now gaining momentum across industrial, household, and entertainment applications. According to the Chinese Institute of Electronics, the country’s humanoid robot market is expected to reach 870 billion yuan (US$120 billion) by 2030, positioning China as the global leader in this domain.
A joint industry report published by robotics company Leaderobot and nine other institutions revealed that China is on track to manufacture over 10,000 humanoid robots this year alone. The output is projected to generate more than 8.24 billion yuan (US$1.14 billion) in revenue, underscoring the growing demand and commercial viability of these advanced machines.
Experts attribute the surge to falling production costs, maturing ecosystems, and rising policy support. Wang Tianmiao, Honorary Director of Robotics at Beihang University, noted, “This isn’t just a market-driven trend. It reflects strategic national planning to position robotics as the next growth pillar for the Chinese economy.” The sector’s growth trajectory is drawing comparisons to China’s meteoric rise in electric vehicle manufacturing. Much like EVs, humanoid robots are moving swiftly from R&D labs into factories, homes, and now — sports arenas.
One early example of real-world commercial use came in March 2025, when UBTech Robotics, a leading Chinese robotics firm, partnered with automaker Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor. Dongfeng announced plans to deploy 20 industrial humanoid robots on its production lines, with full deployment expected by mid-2025.
Another major trend highlighted in the report is the expansion of embodied intelligence — an area where AI is physically expressed through robots capable of interacting with their environment. China’s market for embodied AI is expected to grow from 5.3 billion yuan this year to an astounding 103.8 billion yuan by 2030, capturing nearly 45% of the global share.
Since early 2024, momentum in the robotics sector has accelerated, fueled by technological breakthroughs, increasing international collaboration, and robust government support. The Mecha Fighting Series symbolizes this shift — blending entertainment, science, and industry into a powerful spectacle that may soon become a recurring part of modern sports culture.
As humanoid robots enter public life in more visible and engaging ways, competitions like this may not only entertain but also accelerate innovation, bringing the age of intelligent machines closer than ever.
