 Thus began an extraordinary series of 68 World records which were overshadowed only by fellow countryman and weightlifter Vasiliy Alekseyev's achievements.After a disappointing performance at the 1972 Summer Olympics, in 1973 Rigert won in all competitions he participated, setting eight World records.He won in all World and European Championships between 1973 and 1976, and earned the gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics.