‘World’s first human vs robot’ fight ends in decisive outcome as fans say ‘entertaining and terrifying’

AN influencer was left battered and bruised after taking on a Terminator-like robot in an MMA fight. The rapid advancements in AI and robotics over the last few years have raised questions about humans’ capabilities against androids. Influencer Frankie Lapenna locked horns with a six-foot robot Credit: INSTAGRAM@REK The American started well against Rek Robotics ‘Rekbot’ Credit: INSTAGRAM@REK And American social media sensation Frankie Lapenna recently decided to test himself against a six-foot robot. Lapenna decided to throw down with Rek Robotics’ ‘Rekbot’, which looks like a T-800 from the Hollywood mega-franchise ‘The Terminator’. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! The ‘Human vs Terminator’ fight was held in a mixed martial arts cage and watched by scores of onlookers. After seeing the size of the robot, a man standing told Lapenna before the fight said: “I’m scared for you.” Their concerns initially seemed misplaced as Lapenna landed a good few shots on the bot. But the robot eventually floored Lapenna with a jumping switch kick to the body. Lapenna crumpled to the canvas and was unable to get back to his feet. The clip of the fight ended shortly after the robot was seen shaking out its limbs. Most read in Sport SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS The ‘Rekbot’ eventually took control of the fight Credit: INSTAGRAM@REK Lapenna found himself floored by a jumping switch kick from the robot Credit: INSTAGRAM@REK But according to Rek’s official X account, Lapenna “kept going and defeated” the mechanical menace. Footage of the fight spread like wildfire on social media. One wrote on X: “Screw UFC I wanna see more of this.” Another said: “How did this person find the courage? I would be afraid.” And another said: “Early release of Black Mirror S08E01.” One remarked: “Holy sh…😮😮😮 We’re toast guys 😂.” And another chimed in: “Humans are cooked💀” Another stunned: “That’s terrifying.” After the footage went viral, Rek revealed that the robot was actually being controlled by a human. But even so, the fight still gave a frightening look at how automated machines could potentially have their way with humans in years to come. Comment now