American boxer Hannah Rapp dies in fatal cycle crash, car driver arrested

American boxer Hannah Rapp, 26, died after being struck by a car while cycling in Texas, with authorities arresting a 31-year-old driver on manslaughter charges.American boxer Hannah Rapp Dies in fatal cycle crash. Courtesy: Most Valuable PromotionsAmerican boxer Hannah Rapp, who challenged Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight title last month, died on Saturday after being struck by a car while cycling in Brazos County, Texas. She was 26. Authorities later arrested Charles Medina, 31, and charged him with manslaughter in connection with the incident.According to the Brazos County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to reports of a major collision involving a vehicle and a cyclist on FM 159 at around 10 AM local time. Investigators said Medina had passed two cyclists before stopping his vehicle, reversing and striking Rapp. Despite receiving medical treatment at the scene and being rushed to hospital, the boxer later succumbed to her injuries. The investigation remains ongoing.Rapp had emerged as one of the brightest talents in women's boxing in recent years. The Indiana native relocated to Texas in 2024 to pursue a professional career and enjoyed an unbeaten start, winning eight and drawing one of her first nine bouts. During that run, she captured the North American Boxing Federation featherweight title before earning a shot at the WBC women's featherweight crown.Last month, Rapp stepped into the ring against Tiara Brown in Orlando, where she suffered the first defeat of her professional career, losing by unanimous decision. Despite the setback, she had earned widespread recognition for her aggressive style and rapid rise through the ranks. BOXING WORLD MOURNS RISING STARTTributes poured in from across the boxing community following news of Rapp's death. World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman described the young American as an irreplaceable figure in the sport."She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family," Sulaiman said. "We join in the grief that overwhelms her loved ones, her team, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and supporting her throughout her brilliant career."Brown also paid an emotional tribute to her former opponent, remembering the mutual respect they shared before facing each other in the ring."Best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro," Brown said. "It filled my heart because we were getting ready for war, yet she was still asking for my autograph.”The WBC also paid tribute to Rapp, praising the dedication and charisma that left "an indelible mark" on the boxing world. Her promoter, Most Valuable Promotions, and former opponent Brown were among those who expressed their condolences after the tragedy.Rapp's death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, bringing a heartbreaking end to a promising career that appeared destined for even greater heights.- EndsPublished By: sabyasachi chowdhuryPublished On: Jul 19, 2026 17:38 IST