Nathan’s Famous hot dog eating contest kicks off after eventful year for iconic event

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMiki Sudo (left) and Joey Chestnut participate in the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest weigh-in ceremony at Hudson Yards on July 3, 2026 (Andy Kropa/Invision/AP)The Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest is set to kick off, celebrating the United States' 250th birthday, this Saturday in Coney Island, New York, continuing its long-standing tradition.Joey Chestnut, the 17-time men's champion and record holder for consuming 76 hot dogs, is set to defend his title despite a recent misdemeanor battery conviction, as his probation allows him to travel.Miki Sudo, an 11-time winner and the women's record holder with 51 hot dogs, will also compete to defend her championship.The competition requires participants to eat as many hot dogs and buns as possible within 10 minutes, often dunking them in water to facilitate consumption. This year's event follows the sale of contest sponsor Nathan's Famous to packaged meat giant Smithfield Foods in January, though Major League Eating confirmed Chestnut's eligibility for the competition.Miki Sudo and the women will compete at 10:45 a.m. ET while Joey Chestnut and the men take the stage around 12:30 p.m. ET.More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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