Shenzhen will host the world's first combat tournament featuring full-sized humanoid robots this December, according to organizers of the event. The announcement was made on May 22 at a press conference at the 21st China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair.
The event, named the EngineAI Robot Free Combat, will center on matches between humanoid robots designed to approximate human height and movement, testing the capabilities of these robots in a controlled, competitive setting that involves decision-making, coordination, and physical interaction.
EngineAI, a robotics company based in Shenzhen, will supply several models of humanoid robots for the competition. The company plans to open-source the robot code, allowing participating teams to customize and train the machines. The robots must operate within predefined rules, using sensors and onboard AI systems to execute real-time attack and defense.
“What we're witnessing is the transition of precision robotics from the lab to the real world,” said Zhao Tongyang, founder of EngineAI.
The tournament reflects broader developments in the region's technology sector. Guangdong, a major hub for China's AI and robotics industries, produces 44 percent of the country's annual industrial robot output and supports a comprehensive supply chain.
Organizers say the tournament will continue to evolve in future editions, with long-term ambitions to develop robot combat into a recognized competitive sport, potentially even at the Olympic level.
Reporter | Chen Siyuan
Photo | Chen Siyuan, EngineAI Robot Free Combat
Video | Zeng Xiangxing
Editor | Ouyang Yan, Hu Nan, James, Shen He
