Mercedes Isabel Pérez Tigrero

About

Renowned Colombian weightlifter - also known as "Mencho" - who captured attention representing her country in multiple Olympic Games and international competitions. She has been recognized as one of her nation's most successful female weightlifting athletes, having earned medals at Pan American and Central American & Caribbean Games while also consistently ranking among the world's top competitors in her weight class.

Before fame

She began her athletic journey at a young age after developing a passion for strength sports early in life. She gradually rose through national and regional weightlifting circuits before securing spots on the Colombian national team and competing on a global level.

Trivia

She competed in several Olympic Games including Beijing 2008, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020 - earning Olympic diplomas (top eight finishes). She has won gold medals at Pan American Games and set records at Central American and Caribbean competitions. In 2025, she also appeared as a competitor on the Colombian reality television show Desaffo Siglo XXI, where she earned her nickname, "Mencho."

Family life

During her time on television, she has publicly shared the challenges she faced while supporting her mother through a serious health battle.

Associated with

Both she and Oscar Figueroa are celebrated Colombian weightlifters.