US boxer Hannah Rapp has died after she was hit by a car while cycling in Texas on Saturday. 

The Brazos County sheriff’s office says Rapp, 26, was cycling on a highway when she was passed by a car which suddenly came to a stop and then reversed into her. She was taken to hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The driver has been arrested and charged with manslaughter.

Rapp had enjoyed a burgeoning career in the ring and challenged for the WBC women’s featherweight title in June, losing to Tiara Brown in Orlando.

Her professional record read eight wins, one draw and one loss.

Jake Paul, her promoter, tweeted: ‘Gone too soon. Condolences to her entire clan. RIP warrior, Hannah Rapp.’ 

American boxer Hannah Rapp has died after being hit by a car while cycling

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said in a statement: ‘She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family.’

Rapp’s former rival Brown labelled her the ‘best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro’ and revealed how Rapp had asked for her autograph before their bout.

‘It filled my heart because we were getting ready for war, yet she was still asking for my autograph,’ said Brown. ‘We fought a great fight. It was my honor to share the ring with her.’

Rapp, from Indiana, turned professional in 2024 and had competed in athletics before turning her attention to the sweet science. During training, she maintained a full-time job as a fire and life safety inspector.