Robot fights and flying taxis showcased in SF, part of America's 250th birthday celebrations

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- A mix of futuristic technology, including fighting robots and flying taxis, drew attention at Fort Mason over the weekend during the "America Innovates" exhibit, part of the Forbes Innovators 250 Celebration.

The event continued Monday night when Forbes hosted a gathering honoring 250 American entrepreneurs and showcasing a range of ideas aimed at shaping the future as the Bay Area prepares to mark America's 250th birthday.

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Attendees heard directly from innovators behind the concepts and technologies on display. Among them was Xenia Bulatov, co-founder of Ultimate Fighting Bots, whose robotic boxing matches became a centerpiece attraction.

"We build a cage, bring two boxing robots, and then we have a fight every hour," Bulatov said.

Bulatov said public interest in robotics continues to grow, adding that her team is expanding into new features such as training robots to dance.

"Everyone is so excited and curious about robotics and what's going on and they are just passionate about seeing robots doing this very visceral sport which is fighting," she said.

The event also featured a symbolic robotic "fight" between Elon Musk and Sam Altman, referencing a recent legal dispute between the two tech figures. Musk joined the event virtually and said the legal battle is ongoing.

"We have to appeal because this will become a precedent," Musk said. "I think this is a dangerous precedent to set because it means someone can take money as a nonprofit and convert that to a profit when it's successful it undermines all charitable giving in America."

Forbes Chief Content Officer Randall Lane said the celebration underscores how innovation continues to shape daily life.

"If you look at all the things that make life pleasant, they came out of innovation, and a lot of the innovation, most of the innovation in the modern world came out of America and we're here at the capital of innovation to celebrate that," Lane said.

Beyond showcasing new technologies, organizers said the event aimed to inspire collaboration and creativity among attendees.

"It's great to be surrounded by innovators it pushes you to do things as well," Bulatov said.

Organizers said the innovations on display reflect ideas that could help shape the next 250 years in America.