Competitive eating icon Joey Chestnut is set to make his triumphant return to the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest next month, after missing last year’s event due to a sponsorship dispute.
Chestnut, a 16-time champion and holder of the world record with 76 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes (set in 2021), announced his comeback on social media this week.
“This event means the world to me,” Chestnut wrote on X.
“It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.”
Chestnut missed the 2024 competition following a disagreement with Major League Eating (MLE) over his endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, a plant-based company.
However, he emphasised that his involvement in the plant-based space never conflicted with his love for traditional hot dogs.
‘Stay hungry’
“I’m excited to be back on the Coney Island stage, doing what I live to do… Stay hungry!” he added.
Major League Eating president Richard Shea confirmed the excitement, calling Joey Chestnut’s return a moment that will make the 2025 contest “the greatest Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest of all time.”
Last year’s champions were:
- Patrick Bertoletti, who ate 58 hot dogs to win the men’s title
- Miki Sudo, who claimed her title with 51 hot dogs in the women’s division
The 2025 contest will take place as usual on Friday, 4 July at Coney Island in New York.
How many hot dogs and buns could you eat in 10 minutes?
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