Tesla’s Optimus V3 robot is stepping into the ring with some fancy new moves and taking on Unitree’s G1 with a flair that’s hard to ignore. It starts with a basic fist touch, just like human sparring partners do before a match. This sets the stage for a 36 second video that shows the robot getting progressively more fluid with a human partner.
Tesla Optimus learning Kung Fu pic.twitter.com/ziEuiiKWn7
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 4, 2025
Next, Optimus takes a combat stance next to its human counterpart. The robot then invites an attack and blocks with increased speed. A notable moment is when Optimus delivers a side kick and shows more stability and control than before. This is more than just looking good; each step shows how far the robot has come with dynamic movements.
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Balance is the focus as the human partner pushes Optimus to its limits. The robot hops and recovers without stumbling. This is a big improvement over the previous “dancing” tests which lacked footwork. Though the hands and fingers are idle, implying Tesla may still be working on those 22 degree of freedom enhancements, the lower body strength keeps it interesting.
Elon Musk has confirmed that Optimus’ moves are controlled by onboard AI, not a remote operator. This is a shift from the earlier tele-operated demos like the popcorn serving one, which means Tesla is getting closer to having a robot that thinks and reacts on its own. If that’s true, it will change how Optimus works in real world scenarios.
These martial arts moves are to show the skills Tesla needs for practical work. Lifting, carrying and crossing uneven ground all require the balance and adaptability seen here. Kung Fu won’t turn Optimus into a warrior, but it’s a good way to show a robot ready for the hardships of everyday job.
Curiosity remains as to what’s next as there’s no finger motion and Musk’s choice of Kung Fu may be a hint to his mischievous side – perhaps a wink to “The Matrix”. With plans to produce 5,000 units in 2025 and 50,000 in 2026, Optimus is gearing up for more than just lab demos.
