They've been popularised in movies, television and video games, but giant fighting robots still haven't left the realm of science fiction.
That will soon change.
Megabots Inc, an Oakland, California-based start-up, has built a 4.5-metre mechanical gladiator called the Mark II and challenged a Japanese firm to an international battle for robot supremacy.
Tokyo-based Suidobashi Heavy Industry, maker of the 4-metre Kuratas machine, accepted the challenge, setting the stage for the first giant robot battle of its kind next year.
The date and location are still to be determined.
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Win or lose, it's all part of Megabots' plan to turn gladiator-style robot combat into big-time entertainment - a mix between Ultimate Fighting Championship and Formula One racing - while developing new technologies and inspiring a new generation of engineers.
