Most people will probably predict the medalists, maybe not the order. Akkaev 1st, Klokov 2nd. I like them both.  Its basically a coin toss. The 3 rd spot will be interesting. Many candidates. Although Aramnau blasted his way to fame and fortune at Beijing, I categorically had him down for no medals in 2012. Turns out he has withdrawn. No matter how talented you are, you cannot squander your precious time with diversions other than wtl. He had a ton of them over the past 4 years. The personal load was heavier than the wts. While Dolega comes in with the highest entry total, old and recent injuries are not a good combo, he will definitely need a very good head start in the snatch. Torokhtiy UKR is a consistent performer and strong in the jerk, this ace in the hole comes in handy in big meets. However, in my bid to win money with the odds markers I will pick 8th ranked Nurudinov UZB for 3rd.

It appears the match of the year has been postponed for another time and place (hopefully). I am also hoping it’s a hoax. However,if the two Russians don’t start (probably as disappointing as finding out Santa was really Mom and dad). Then Torokhtiy UKR 1st, Nurudinov 2nd and Bonk POL 3rd (he has been  both a rising and falling star) . Not picking Dolega is as difficult as not picking Lu in the 85kg.

I’ll go with Ilin for 1st although I’m not certain its the total given everyone thinks . I have to go with the twin Ivanovs;  Artem (UKR) 2nd and Alexandr (RUS) 3rd. There are a couple of dark horses who could sneak in. Kasabijew (POL) 1st competed at the 2004 Olympics as a 16 yr old! He lifted for Georgia. At the 2008 Olympics he finished 4th, so he is the primary dark horse. I am going just with  the original start list, not the official start list. So I may pick someone who is not entered due to some catastrophic injury or illness, real or imagined. Korea has been shut out of the medals so far and Kim is a another dark horse, as well as Uteshov KAZ.