U.S. boxer Hannah Rapp, 26, died Saturday after being struck by a vehicle while cycling in Texas. The Brazos County Sheriff's Office reported that Rapp was riding on a highway when a car passed her, stopped, and then reversed into her.
Rapp was transported to a hospital where she was pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle has been arrested and charged with manslaughter.
IMAGE1:
Rapp had been building a notable career in boxing, recently challenging for the WBC women's featherweight title in June. She lost that bout to Tiara Brown in Orlando. Her professional record stood at eight wins, one draw, and one loss.
Promoter Jake Paul paid tribute on social media, tweeting, "Gone too soon. Condolences to her entire clan. RIP warrior, Hannah Rapp." WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman described Rapp as an "exceptional boxer" and an "invaluable member of our boxing family."
Tiara Brown, Rapp's former opponent, called her the "best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro." Brown recalled Rapp asking for her autograph before their fight, noting, "It filled my heart because we were getting ready for war, yet she was still asking for my autograph."
Rapp, originally from Indiana, turned professional in 2024. Prior to her boxing career, she competed in athletics and worked as a full-time fire and life safety inspector.