American professional boxer Hannah Rapp died on Saturday after being struck by a car while out cycling, according to a statement from the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office in Texas. She was 26 years old.
Rapp had built an impressive record in the ring, going 8-0-1 across her first nine professional fights and claiming the North American Boxing Federation featherweight title. Most recently, she had stepped up to challenge Tiara Brown for the WBC featherweight championship last month, falling short in a unanimous decision loss.
The World Boxing Council expressed deep sorrow over her passing. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman offered a heartfelt tribute, saying, “She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family. 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.”
The Brazos County Sheriff’s Office announced that Charles Medina, 31, has been taken into custody and charged with manslaughter in connection with Rapp’s death.
