Real Steel fantasy turns real as Humanoid robots fight at CES 2026

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Chinese robotics firm Unitree showcased humanoid robots engaging in MMA-style combat, bringing the "Real Steel" fantasy to life. Two of Unitree’s G1 humanoid robots, standing 130 cm tall and weighing 35 kg, demonstrated boxing-style bouts complete with gloves and headgear, impressing audiences with their agility and combat rhythm. Priced around $13,500, the G1 is designed to be lightweight, affordable, and versatile for domestic tasks, featuring joints capable of exerting up to 120 newton-meters of torque. The event, officiated by a human referee, highlighted the potential for humanoid robot fights to evolve into mainstream entertainment akin to mixed martial arts. Unitree also unveiled its next-generation H2 humanoid robot, which is larger and heavier at 180 cm and 70 kg but retains high agility, capable of kicks, backflips, and complex combat moves. The H2 boasts 31 degrees of