Competitive eating champion Joey Chestnut is making a triumphant return to this year’s Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest on Coney Island on July 4th, after being sidelined last year due to a sponsorship conflict. The announcement was made by Major League Eating and Chestnut on Monday, just days after it was confirmed that negotiations were underway to bring the star back to one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
“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 shared in a statement on social media.
Last year, Chestnut was unable to compete because of a deal he had with Impossible Foods, which had recently introduced a plant-based hot dog. Fortunately, recent discussions led to a resolution, allowing both Chestnut and Major League Eating to move forward positively.
“While I have and continue to partner with a variety of companies, including some in the plant-based space, those relationships were never a conflict with my love for hot dogs. To be clear: Nathan’s is the only hot dog company I’ve ever worked with,” Chestnut clarified in his statement. “I respect that there were differences in interpretation, but I’m grateful we’ve been able to find common ground. 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!”
In celebration of his return, Major League Eating released a promotional video highlighting the upcoming contest.
“The Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest stands as an enduring beacon of freedom for our nation and the world,” said Major League Eating Chair George Shea. “We look forward to watching the greatest eaters as they compete on a celebrated platform for international sports.”
Chestnut aims to reclaim his title, having previously won the contest a record 16 times, as he goes up against last year’s champion, Patrick Bertoletti, who devoured 58 hot dogs and buns to take the crown, marking the first time since 2015 someone other than Chestnut won the competition.