Of his many attempts to become Soviet champion he came very close on three occasions; at Riga 1970, Baku 1972 and at Moscow 1983, where he finished behind Korchnoi, Tal and Karpov respectively.
The subject's pursuit of the Soviet championship title is highlighted through his three near-victories: Riga 1970, Baku 1972, and Moscow 1983.  He was defeated by Korchnoi, Tal, and Karpov in each instance.