The renowned Cuban discus thrower Yaimé Pérez, also known as "La Rusa," has joined the cast of the ninth season of Exatlón USA All Stars, which premiered this Tuesday, December 10, on the Telemundo network. This reality show challenges participants' physical and mental capabilities through demanding circuits, offering a prize of $200,000 to the victor.
At 33, Pérez hails from Santiago de Cuba and is now a part of the Blue Team, alongside fellow Cuban Yoridán Martínez. Martínez is a former baseball player who represented the Spanish national team and was a champion in a previous edition. Together, they aim to surpass the Red Team competitors in what is dubbed "the fiercest competition on the planet."
From Athletic Elite to Reality TV
Over the past decade, Yaimé Pérez has been one of the world's top discus throwers. She clinched the world championship in Doha 2019 and took home a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, her career took a significant turn when she left the Cuban delegation in 2022 after the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Since then, she has been residing in Philadelphia, USA.
In 2024, Pérez returned to the sports spotlight by recording a throw of 73.09 meters at the Oklahoma Throwing Series, marking the best global performance in the past 35 years and the tenth best of all time. Despite this achievement reinforcing her status as an elite athlete, her current situation prevents her from officially representing the United States.
Outstanding Achievements
Yaimé Pérez boasts an exceptional track record, including a gold medal at the Pan American Games in Lima 2019, silver in Toronto 2015, two Diamond League titles (2018 and 2019), and a junior world championship in 2010. Her move into television expands her influence, showcasing her versatility beyond athletics.
"La Rusa's" participation in Exatlón USA not only elevates her name but also stirs excitement among Cubans who eagerly follow her performance in this new venture.
Yaimé Pérez's Journey: From Athletics to Reality TV
Who is Yaimé Pérez?
Yaimé Pérez is a renowned Cuban discus thrower, known for her world championship victory in Doha 2019 and a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
What is Exatlón USA?
Exatlón USA is a reality television show that tests participants' physical and mental skills through challenging circuits, offering a prize of $200,000 to the winner.
Where does Yaimé Pérez currently reside?
Since leaving the Cuban delegation in 2022, Yaimé Pérez has been living in Philadelphia, United States.