American boxer Hannah Rapp died in a fatal bicycle accident, the driver of the car was arrested

American boxer Hannah Rapp, who challenged Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight title last month, died on Saturday after being hit by a car while riding her bicycle 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 large vehicle-bicyclist collision on FM 159 around 10 a.m. local time. Investigators said Medina passed two bicyclists before stopping his vehicle, backing up and hitting Rapp. Despite receiving medical treatment at the scene and being transported to hospital, the boxer later succumbed to her injuries. The investigation is still ongoing.

Rapp has emerged as one of the brightest talents in women’s boxing in recent years. The Indiana native moved to Texas in 2024 to pursue a professional career and has enjoyed an unbeaten start, winning eight and drawing one of her first nine matches. During this run, she won 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 earned widespread acclaim for her aggressive style and rapid rise in the rankings.

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After news of Rapp’s death, tributes poured in from across the boxing community. 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 sadness that washes over her loved ones, her team and all those who had the privilege of knowing and supporting her during her brilliant career.”

Brown also paid an emotional tribute to his former opponent, recalling the mutual respect they shared before facing each other in the ring.

“The best dance partner I’ve ever had as a professional,” Brown said. “It filled my heart because we were preparing for war, but she kept asking for my autograph.

The WBC also paid tribute to Rapp, praising the dedication and charisma that left an “indelible mark” on the world of boxing. Her promoter, Most Valuable Promotions, and former opponent Brown were among those to express their condolences following the tragedy.

Rapp’s death sent shockwaves through the boxing community and brought a heartbreaking end to a promising career that seemed destined for even greater heights.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

19 Jul 2026 17:38 IST