Blockbuster Lottery Win for British Columbia Man: Largest Jackpot Ever

• Gambling News
• 18 May 2025

A resident of Surrey, B.C., has claimed CAD $80 million from a Lotto Max jackpot draw, marking B.C.’s largest lottery win to date and the biggest jackpot ever given to an individual in Canada. 

Arrangements to See LeBron in Person 

Justin Simporios took the cheque from the British Columbia Lottery Corporation and, with tears in his eyes, expressed that he can now spend more quality time with his wife, daughter, and family. Simporios, 35, stated that with the victory, his mother will never need to work again. 

Simporios informed the press that he usually sleeps well and “can doze off anywhere,” but he was unable to sleep after learning he had won the May 9 draw. 

“It was 10:30 p.m.,” recalled Simporios of the moment he realized he won. “I saw that someone won $80 million in Surrey. I was joking and told my wife ‘We’re millionaires!’ and she told me to stop making that joke. After, I manually checked each number before scanning [using the BCLC Lotto! App] I cried and shouted, ‘we’re millionaires!’”

Incredulity 

Simporios roused his wife to share the news. She initially reacted with skepticism, but his daughter had not been feeling well. However, Simporios' spouse consented that an $80 million lottery victory was a valid cause to rouse her. 

“I’ll pay off my sister’s medical school debt and help my mom retire early – just giving my family a head start in life,” he said.

Simporios further stated that a main focus for him is contributing to the community in Surrey. 

“I’ve struggled before and needed help,” he said. “Even if I can give an ounce of happiness, I want to help where we can. This feels like a dream.”

Assisting the Community 

Simporios is a huge fan of LeBron James and expressed his desire to watch the L.A. Lakers' star compete in a game before James hangs up his jersey. Rumors of retirement are circulating regarding James, who recently mentioned he hasn't yet discussed with his family the possibility of continuing his playing career for his 23rd season. Therefore, it is early to determine if Simporios’ James aspiration will become a reality. 

Nonetheless, a visit to the Philippines for a family gathering is definitely possible, so Simporios mentions he will begin preparations for it. 

“My wife and kid have never visited,” he said. “The biggest change will be having more time with my wife and family. We want to live with a purpose – to help the community around us.”

Historic Victory 

Lotto Max is a countrywide lottery game recognized for its bigger jackpots, held on Tuesdays and Fridays. The provincial organizations manage the national lotteries, ensuring that the rules and prize structures remain uniform across the country. BCLC runs provincial lotteries, such as BC/49 and Keno – usually featuring smaller prize pools but often offering improved odds. 

Simporios bought his winning ticket at the Walmart Supercentre located in Central City, Surrey.