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Coney Island’s top dog is back for the Fourth of July feast. Joey Chestnut — the undisputed titan of competitive eating — announced Monday that he will return to the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2025.
Chestnut, often referred to as the Michael Jordan of hot dog eating, was banned from the 2024 event due to a sponsorship conflict involving a plant-based meat brand. That decision ended his bid for a ninth straight title. In response, Chestnut squared off against his longtime rival Takeru Kobayashi in a head-to-head hot dog eating contest on Labor Day, which aired on Netflix. Chestnut dominated, devouring a staggering 83 hot dogs to Kobayashi’s 67 for a personal best and unofficial world record.
Now, the 16-time Nathan’s champion is back — and he’s hungry to reclaim his throne.
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. (1/3)
