Light-Heavyweight (≤82½ kilograms), Men

Hungarian Győző Veres was a solid favorite in this class, as the world record holder and World Champion in 1962-63. He was expected to be opposed by his countryman Géza Tóth, with Soviet Rudolf Plyukfelder considered to have medal chances. Veres seemed to cement his favorite status when he pressed 155.0 kg to lead Plyukfelder by 5 kg, but Plyukfelder snatched 142.5 kg and when Veres missed his final snatch of 137.5 kg, Plyukfelder took the lead. He then jerked 182.5 kg and when Veres missed his second and third attempts at 187.5 kg, Plyukfelder had the gold medal. Tóth and Veres tied at 467.5 kg, 7.5 kg back, with Tóth winning silver on bodyweight.