Joey Chestnut is set to make his much-anticipated return to the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest this Fourth of July at Coney Island, Brooklyn. Known as the reigning 16-time champion, Chestnut missed last year’s contest due to his commitment with Impossible Foods, which produces plant-based hot dogs.
In his absence, Patrick Bertoletti from Chicago seized the opportunity and triumphed by consuming 58 hot dogs and buns, earning him the esteemed Yellow Mustard Belt. Similarly, Miki Sudo made headlines by setting a record in the women’s division with 51 hot dogs and buns, continuing her domination of the event since 2014, barring a break in 2021 when she was pregnant.
Chestnut, who still holds the record for the most hot dogs eaten in a single contest at 76, expressed his excitement about returning. He emphasized the significance of the event in his life and reiterated his long-standing relationship with Nathan’s, stating that, despite associations with other companies, they never conflicted with his passion for hot dogs. “I’m thrilled to be returning to the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest. This event means the world to me,” he shared on social media.
This annual competition, a cherished American tradition since its inception in 1916, will feature competitors from the U.S., England, Canada, Brazil, the Czech Republic, and Australia. The women’s contest is slated for 11 a.m., followed by the men’s competition at 12:30 p.m.
In a gesture of goodwill, Nathan’s Famous will also donate 100,000 hot dogs to the Food Bank for New York City. The significance of this event was aptly captured by Phil McCann of Nathan’s Famous and Major League Eating Chair George Shea, both of whom recognized it as a symbol of summer celebration and freedom.
With the countdown to the competition underway, spectators are eager to witness Chestnut’s return and see who will triumph in this iconic contest. The spirit of competition and the tradition it honors continue to make the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest a highlight of Independence Day celebrations across the nation.