California orders REK to halt unsanctioned robot cage fights

REK: REK is a San Francisco-based robotics startup focused on developing and staging events with humanoid robots, including remote-controlled combat leagues. The company has expanded operations with a storefront for robot sales, rentals, repairs, and training while promoting VR-linked fighting experiences. Its recent human versus humanoid robot bout prompted a cease-and-desist order from California regulators targeting unsanctioned fights. REK CEO: The REK CEO serves as the primary spokesperson for the robotics startup's fighting league and publicly attributed the California cease-and-desist order to the company's recent human versus robot event. The executive has highlighted the novelty of such matches while addressing emerging state regulatory responses to humanoid robot activities. Regulatory Action: California authorities have begun issuing cease-and-desist orders specifically addressing unsanctioned human versus humanoid robot cage fights as one of the early state-level interventions in this emerging activity. AI Oversight Trends: California has advanced new legislation requiring human oversight for artificial intelligence systems used in workplace decisions, reflecting broader state efforts to manage AI and robotics applications. Robotics Demonstrations: Public events featuring humanoid robots in competitive formats have increased visibility for companies operating in the sector through live showcases in major U.S. cities.