Joey Chestnut, a dominant figure in competitive eating, has a long history with the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, having won the event 16 times. He holds the all-time record for most hot dogs eaten with 76, set in 2021.
Here’s EasySportz’s preview of the event.
Why he missed last year’s contest (2024):
Joey Chestnut was barred from the 2024 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest due to a contract dispute. He had signed a deal to be a spokesperson for Impossible Foods, which sells plant-based hot dogs. Major League Eating (MLE), the organization that runs the Nathan’s contest, stated that Chestnut’s partnership with a “rival brand” violated their “hot dog exclusivity provisions.” Despite negotiation efforts, an agreement could not be reached that would allow him to participate in the Fourth of July championship. Instead, he competed in a separate, unbranded contest at Fort Bliss in Texas on July 4th, where he ate 57 hot dogs, and later faced Takeru Kobayashi in a Netflix showcase called “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef,” eating 83 hot dogs to Kobayashi’s 67. Patrick Bertoletti won the 2024 Nathan’s contest in Chestnut’s absence, eating 58 hot dogs.
Why he is back (2025):
Joey Chestnut is returning to the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2025. While the specific details of the resolution are not fully public, it appears that Nathan’s and Major League Eating have made amends with Chestnut regarding his past endorsement deals. Both sides expressed a desire for his return, with Nathan’s Famous stating they are “thrilled to have Joey Chestnut back for this year’s Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating contest.” Chestnut himself expressed his excitement, stating the event “means the world to me. It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.” He is back to reclaim his title and is considered the overwhelming favorite to win his 17th Mustard Belt.
