Machines `fight’ for top honours in the ring

Coaches shouted at ringside as robot operators frantically manipulated the machines by remote-control. But the swarm of spectators that filled the arena was more likely to break down in laughter than root for favourites.

There were no weight categories in the competition, but the organisers did require the robots to be less than 35 cm front to back and 25 cm wide.

Otherwise, the inventors were granted complete freedom of design as long as their robots had something resembling arms and legs.

The laissez-faire attitude showed: One entry went into battle sporting a green-and-yellow wig. Another, more on the viscious side, shot out scorpion-like pincers that sent opponents crashing to the canvas.

“You need to prepare powerful arms for the robot. You also have to be very good at control. Then, you can make it,” said robot-manager Yusuke Kimura.By the end of the day, it was clear that sleek design mattered less than simple, good machinery.

One promising machine that looked like a metallic jellyfish was easily knocked over by a brutal uppercut from a graceless bundle of erector-set parts and wires.

Mechanical failures generated lots of laughs. Many robots simply appeared to cower in their corners, and when both contestants sputtered about avoiding contact the one that made it furthest into the ring was awarded the match.

Competitions like this one are a regular fare in a country that treats its robots with respect and affection.