‘Human vs. Robot’ cage match was a hit. State says event was illegal, but organizers aren’t concerned

The California State Athletic Commission issued a cease-and-desist order to Robot Entertainment Kombat following an unsanctioned Sept. 18 "Human Vs. Robot" cage match in San Francisco. Influencer Frankie LaPenna fought three remotely operated humanoid robots, defeating two. The state regulatory agency declared the unlicensed combat exhibition illegal, warning that any human combat sports event in California requires official commission approval.

Organizers expressed little concern regarding the legal notice, with REK CEO Cix Liv arguing the law applies only to bouts between two people. LaPenna emerged largely uninjured, reporting only a minor hand injury from striking metal. While REK is pausing mixed bouts in California, Liv stated the promotion intends to stage future human-versus-robot fights in other jurisdictions.