American boxer Hannah Rapp, 26, died on Saturday after being struck by a car while cycling in Brazos, Texas. The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident and announced the arrest of Charles Medina, 31, who has been charged with manslaughter.
Rapp, a rising star in women’s boxing, had won eight of her first nine professional bouts, including the North American Boxing Federation featherweight title. Last month, she challenged Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight championship, losing by unanimous decision. Brown later paid tribute to Rapp, calling her "the best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro."
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman described Rapp as "an exceptional boxer and invaluable member of our boxing family." Internet personality Jake Paul, who promoted Rapp, also honored her, calling her a "warrior."
According to reports, Rapp was cycling on a highway when a car passed her, stopped, and then reversed into her. She was rushed to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
Rapp, from Indiana, turned professional in 2024 and had previously competed in athletics. She maintained a full-time job as a fire and life safety inspector while training for boxing.