On September 25, a conferment ceremony of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays, for Mr. Jagjit Singh Hans (known popularly as Mr. Tiger Jeet Singh), Chairman of Tiger Jeet Singh Foundation, was held at the official residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Toronto.

At the outset, Consul-General Matsunaga Takeshi delivered a celebratory statement in which he mentioned that Mr. Hans was recognized for his contribution to the promotion of Japan-Canada friendship and mutual understanding through sports. A congratulatory video message from The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Mr. Adam van Koeverden, Member of Parliament (Milton, Ontario), was delivered, and a congratulatory message from The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, was conveyed by Mr. Will Bouma, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs. Mr. Hardeep Singh Grewal, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and His Worship Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, also delivered congratulatory remarks.

Mr. Hans then took the podium to give a speech as the recipient of the Imperial Decoration. He expressed immense joy, stating that receiving such a decoration from His Majesty the Emperor of Japan was the highest and most prestigious honour possible. He made other comments, including how he had only fond memories of Japan and that Japan was his second home. He also added that this decoration was an honour for every professional wrestling fan as well. Finally, he expressed his deep gratitude to the Government of Japan.

After Mr. Hans’ remarks, His Worship Gord Krantz, Mayor of Milton, concluded the ceremony by leading the guests in a toast.