But he failed in his first attempt and, with silver assured, decided not to have a third lift.
"I saw how he lifted 187kg easily and realised that he was a very strong opponent. I was indeed worried," said the 20-year-old Liao of Dabaya-Tientcheu's attempt at 197kg.
"I was in a disadvantageous position because my second lift was inferior. I was really nervous and was waiting for something to happen."
China's Shi Zhiyong, who won gold in the 62kg in Athens four years ago, pulled out of the competition for unknown reasons after lifting 152kg in the snatch.
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