American boxer Hannah Rapp died on Saturday after being hit by a car while she was cycling.
According to the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office in Texas, Rapp was struck by a reversing vehicle and was taken to hospital, where she later died.
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The 26-year-old had fought just one month earlier, on a show organised by Jake Paul’s company Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). Challenging Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight title, Rapp lost on points as her record fell to 8-1-1 (5 KOs).
Paul, famously a YouTuber-turned-boxer, was among those to pay tributes to Rapp, writing on Instagram: “Condolences to all of Hannah’s family, friends and teammates. RIP warrior.”
MVP wrote: “Most Valuable Promotions is heartbroken by the tragic passing of Hannah Rapp. Hannah competed on MVPW-04 in Orlando on June 13 and made a lasting impression on everyone who had the opportunity to meet her. She was a gifted athlete, a valued member of the boxing community, and someone who was deeply respected by those around her.
“Our thoughts are with Hannah’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We are grateful to have shared a part of her journey and will honor her memory in the weeks ahead. Rest in peace Hannah. You will be deeply missed.”
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Brown added: “Where should I begin. Hanna was the best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro. When she asked for my autograph it filled my heart because we were getting ready for war yet she was still asking for my autograph.
“It made me smile, we fought a GREAT fight for the fans from the 1st bell to the last! It was my honor to share the ring with her. And God blessed her with the ability to show her skills to the world on ESPN. Thank you @mostvaluablepromotions for making her & my dreams come true. Hanna will definitely be a champion in heaven & I will never let her name fade away as long as I lace up my gloves.”
And WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said: “Deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing away of our champion Hannah Rapp. May she rest in eternal peace.”
Brazos County Sheriff’s Office had shared a press release on Saturday that read: “On Saturday, July 18, 2026, just before 10:00 a.m., deputies with the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 23000 block of FM 159 in reference to a major crash involving a vehicle and a bicyclist. Initial reports indicated that a vehicle had struck a bicyclist, leaving an adult female lying in the roadway.
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“First responders arrived on scene and provided emergency medical care before the victim was transported to a local hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, she later passed away at the hospital. The victim has been identified as 26-year-old Hannah Rapp.”
The driver of the vehicle, a 31-year-old male, was arrested and charged with manslaughter.
“At this time, investigators believe this was an isolated incident,” said the Sheriff’s Office. “The investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives continue to gather evidence and review all available information […] The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Hannah Rapp during this difficult time.”
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