American boxer Hannah Rapp, who recently contended for the WBC women’s featherweight championship, tragically passed away following an incident where she was reportedly struck by a vehicle while cycling.
Rapp, aged 26, was overtaken by a car that abruptly stopped and then reversed into her, according to the Brazos County sheriff’s office. The driver has been taken into custody and charged with manslaughter. In June, Rapp competed for the featherweight championship in Orlando, losing to Tiara Brown, resulting in an 8-1-1 record.
Her promoter, Most Valuable Promotions, expressed sorrow in a statement, highlighting Rapp’s athletic prowess and the high regard she held within the boxing community. They extended their sympathies to Rapp’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones during this challenging period, vowing to honor her memory in the coming weeks.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman paid tribute to Rapp, acknowledging her as not only a remarkable boxer but also a cherished member of the boxing fraternity. Brown, Rapp’s opponent in the championship match, praised her as the best competitor she had faced professionally and recounted a touching moment when Rapp requested her autograph before their clash.
Originally from Indiana, Rapp turned professional in 2024 while also working full-time as a fire and life safety inspector.
