Joey Chestnut, a prominent figure in the world of competitive eating, is making his much-anticipated return to Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2025, just in time for the Fourth of July celebration. Known as the champion of the event, Chestnut’s absence in 2024 was due to a sponsorship conflict with a plant-based meat brand, halting his quest for a ninth consecutive title.
In an exciting turn of events, Chestnut faced off against his longtime challenger, Takeru Kobayashi, in a special head-to-head contest that aired on Netflix last Labor Day. In a stunning display of skill, Chestnut consumed 83 hot dogs—an impressive personal best that also served as an unofficial world record—while Kobayashi followed with 67.
Expressing his enthusiasm for returning, Chestnut stated, “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.”
Chestnut clarified on Monday why he missed last year’s event through a post on X. He expressed that various company partnerships, including those with some plant-based brands, never conflicted with his passion for eating hot dogs. “To be clear: Nathan’s is the only hot dog company I’ve ever worked with,” he said.
He revealed that a fundamental miscommunication led to his absence, but he remains grateful for the resolution. “I respect that there were differences in interpretation, but I’m grateful we’ve been able to find common ground,” he added. “I’m excited to be back on the Coney Island stage, doing what I live to do, and celebrating the Fourth of July with hot dogs in my hands!”
Last year, with Chestnut unable to compete, Patrick Bertoletti took the championship by consuming 58 hot dogs. Previously, Chestnut achieved a winning total of 62 in 2023, while his record for Nathan’s remains an astounding 76 hot dogs, set back in 2021. As the event draws closer, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Chestnut as fans eagerly await another memorable performance on the iconic Coney Island stage.