He entered Kokushikan University in 1979, and faced Yasuhiro Yamashita a total of 7 times in the finals of the All-Japan Judo Championships, Jigoro Kano Cup, and All-Japan University Judo Championships.

He defeated Cho by decision, and won the final against Henry Stöhr to capture his second Olympic gold medal.

[2] Saito retired from competition shortly after his second Olympics as an athlete and became an instructor for Kokushikan University and the All Japan Judo Federation.

[3][4] He died aged 54 from cholangiocarcinoma, a rare but rapidly progressing and incurable form of liver cancer.

[5][6] After his death Saito was promoted by the Kodokan to 9th dan rank in judo and was also awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette by the Japanese Emperor.