Riyadh - Sharikat Mubasher: Hero Esports, Asia’s largest esports company, announced the launch of CyberHero, a new global robotic sports initiative, in Riyadh on 9 September with the Middle East’s first humanoid robot kickboxing event.

Danny Tang, co-founder and CEO of Hero Esports, introduced the initiative during the opening day of LEAP 2026, the company stated in a recent press release.

The first CyberHero in Riyadh will feature 10 EngineAI T800 humanoid robots, developed by Shenzhen-based robotics company EngineAI, competing live in a purpose-built combat arena. Robots from other leading robotics brands are also expected to participate at the show.

The Riyadh event is the first event in a planned series of CyberHero events in major cities worldwide, combining robotic competition with live entertainment and immersive experiences.

“Hero Esports has always been about building moments that people want to experience together. CyberHero takes that philosophy beyond traditional esports and into a new category. We are starting in Riyadh because this iconic city is a meeting point between East and West. That makes it a natural home for the first CyberHero event — a place where technology, talent and ideas from different parts of the world can converge,” Tang said.

CyberHero in Riyadh event will combine robotic competition with music, lighting and immersive live entertainment, including a live set from a rising international DJ.

Alongside CyberHero, Hero Esports plans to establish the CyberHero Saudi–China Scholar Program to foster deeper connections between young talent and the robotics ecosystems of the two countries.

The program’s first phase will provide opportunities for up to 30 Saudi students to visit China, taking participants across three Chinese cities to experience the country’s rapidly developing robotics and Physical AI ecosystem firsthand.

The program will include visits to robotics companies, technology institutions, and other organizations working at the forefront of the sector, creating opportunities for learning, exchange, and future collaboration.

LEAP2026 takes place from 31 August to 3 September under the theme “Into New Worlds,” bringing together thousands of companies, startups, investors, and technology experts. It is expected to attract more than 1,000 global speakers and experts, 1,800 technology companies, 600 startups, and 1,900 investors and venture capital representatives.