Boxer Hannah Rapp dies at 26 after being struck by car in Texas

American boxer Hannah Rapp has died at the age of 26 after being struck by a car while cycling in Texas, according to the Brazos County Sheriff's Office. The driver involved has been arrested and charged with manslaughter and was transported to the Brazos County Detention Center.

According to the sheriff's office account, a vehicle that had already passed Rapp reversed into her after suddenly stopping while she was riding along a highway. She was taken to hospital, where she later died.

A career on the rise

Known in the ring as 'Hanarchy', Rapp turned professional in 2024 and compiled a record of 8-1-1. She had come to boxing after a background in track, having long wanted to take up a martial art.

Her final bout came on 13 June in Orlando, where she challenged WBC featherweight champion Tiara Brown under the banner of Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions. Rapp lost a unanimous decision after 10 rounds — the first defeat of her 10-fight professional career.

Tributes from across the sport

Brown paid tribute to Rapp on social media, calling her "the best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro" and recalling that Rapp had asked for her autograph before they fought. "It was my honor to share the ring with her," Brown said.

MVP co-founder Paul wrote: "Gone too soon. Condolences to her entire clan. RIP warrior, Hannah Rapp." The promotion said it was heartbroken and described Rapp as a gifted athlete who was deeply respected by those around her, adding that it would honour her memory in the weeks ahead. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman called her an exceptional boxer and an invaluable member of the boxing family, while the World Boxing Association extended its condolences to her family and friends.

• Rapp was 26 and competed as a featherweight under the nickname 'Hanarchy'
• She turned professional in 2024 and finished with a record of 8-1-1
• Her last fight was a 10-round unanimous decision loss to WBC champion Tiara Brown on 13 June in Orlando
• The driver has been charged with manslaughter, per the Brazos County Sheriff's Office
• Tributes came from Brown, Jake Paul, MVP, the WBC and the WBA

The circumstances of the collision remain the subject of the manslaughter case in Brazos County. For MVP, Rapp's death comes weeks after her first appearance on one of its Orlando cards, and the promotion has said further tributes will follow.