Jigoro Kano

Kano Jigoro (Japan, 1860–1938) founded judo, and established the Kodokan in 1882. Judo was the first Japanese martial art to gain widespread international recognition, and the first to become an official Olympic sport. Kano was also a pioneer of international sports. Accomplishments included being the first Asian member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). His official honors and decorations included the First Order of Merit and Grand Order of the Rising Sun and the Third Imperial Degree.

He was inducted to the IJF Hall of Fame on 14 May, 1999.