Joey Chestnut has announced his exciting return to the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2025 through a social media post on Monday, following a ban from the 2024 event. The accomplished competitive eater expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “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. It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.”
The 41-year-old faced a ban from the 2024 contest after entering a sponsorship deal with Impossible Foods, a situation that did not sit well with Major League Eating, the organization responsible for the event’s regulations. Reports from Steve Cuozzo of the New York Post highlighted that Chestnut’s association with plant-based hot dogs was deemed a conflict of interest.
Despite the setback, negotiations are ongoing between Chestnut and Major League Eating, with TMZ Sports indicating that discussions about his return to the competition are “actively negotiating.” Chestnut had previously shown willingness to participate again, remarking in May, “If they came back with similar terms we were talking about last year, I would definitely consider it. I’d work with them to make sure there weren’t any conflicts with other sponsors.”
Chestnut is a legendary figure in competitive eating, having clinched the title at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest a record 16 times. He currently holds the record for the most hot dogs consumed in the competition, with a staggering 76 in a single event back in 2021. During his time away, Patrick Bertoletti took home the title in 2024, consuming 58 hot dogs in 10 minutes.
The anticipation surrounding Chestnut’s return in 2025 brings renewed energy to the contest, highlighting its importance as a cultural staple on Independence Day. Chestnut’s legacy in the sport continues to inspire many, and fans look forward to his performance in the upcoming contests.