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Joey Chestnut, a 16-time champion of the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, has been barred from participating in this year's event, as announced by Major League Eating (MLE). The ban reportedly stems from Chestnut's recent partnership with a competing vegan food brand.
Chestnut has become a staple of Fourth of July celebrations, securing victory in 16 out of the last 17 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating contests, including the last eight consecutive wins. He also holds the all-time record for consuming 76 hot dogs and buns, set in 2021.
MLE has provided insight into the decision to exclude Chestnut from the competition, confirming that his affiliation with a plant-based food company is the driving force behind the split. The organization did express that Chestnut would be permitted to compete if he were to sever ties with the plant-based brand.
"We are devastated to learn that Joey Chestnut has chosen to represent a rival brand that sells plant-based hot dogs rather than competing in the 2024 Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest," MLE stated. "Joey and his managers have prioritized a new partnership with a different hot dog brand over our long-time relationship."
Chestnut sidelined from 4th of July showdown
The statement continued, "Joey Chestnut is an American hero. We would love nothing more than to have him at the Nathan's Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest, which he has dominated for years. There is still the opportunity for him to choose Nathan's and July 4th over the plant-based hot dog, and return to the adoring fans at Coney Island. We hope that he returns when he is not representing a rival brand."
The absence of Chestnut at the upcoming event would mark a significant departure for the Independence Day competition. Last year, no other participant came close to Chestnut's remarkable feat of consuming 62 hot dogs and buns.
Chestnut's exclusion from this year's contest could potentially alter the dynamic of the event, as fans have grown accustomed to his impressive performances and record-breaking achievements. The possibility of his return in the future remains open, should he decide to prioritize his long-standing association with Nathan's and the annual Fourth of July tradition over his current partnership with a rival brand.
What time is the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest today?
This is a day time event and the contest is set to begin at 11am ET and will be finished up by 1pm.
- 10am: Pre-show festivities, including musical and dance performances
- 11am: Women's Contest
- 12:30pm: Men's Contest