After missing the 2024 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest because of a contract with Impossible Foods, Joey Chestnut, the so-called wiener king, reclaimed his title, downing 70.5 hot dogs to win the coveted Mustard Belt for a record 17th time. In the women’s competition, reigning champion Miki Sudo won her 11th Nathan’s title by eating 33 hot dogs and buns.
Chestnut’s triumphant return
While Chestnut didn’t beat his own record of 76 hot dogs, set in 2021, he did beat the second-place finisher by 20 frankfurters.
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“Man, I wish I could have ate a couple more. I’m sorry, guys,” Chestnut said after the competition. “My goal was 70-77— I really wanted a little bit more.”
“But yeah, I’ll be back next year,” Chestnut said. “Im just happy I’m here, and happy Fourth of July.”
Impossible Foods controversy
Chestnut made his triumphant return after missing the contest last year because of his partnership with Impossible Foods. The company had recently introduced a plant-based hot dog, which Chestnut planned to promote during the competition. However, the Nathan’s Famous’s contest policy bans brand switching. Chestnut refused to compete under those rules, but appears to be back in the good graces of the contest’s organizers.
A far second
Patrick Bertolletti won the 2024 competition in Chestnut’s absence, gobbling down 58 hot dogs. It was the first time since 2015 someone other than Chestnut won the contest.
However, Bertoletti didn’t even come close to Chestnut on Friday, July 4. He was only able to get 46.5 hot dogs and buns down his gullet.
Chestnut was the overwhelming favorite to win, with -1800 (or 1-18) odds on most online sports betting platforms. Those who bet would have had to wager $180 to win just $10. That’s why gamblers bet on other things, like the number of hot dogs and buns eaten.
No beef over last year
During his weigh-in on Thursday, July 3, Chestnut said last year’s controversy wouldn’t get in his way.
“We didn’t burn any bridges. I love this event. I was willing to keep talking and I’m happy we figured it out,” Chestnut said.
His supporters were happy too, showing their excitement. When Major League Eating’s George Shea announced, “Joe Chestnut is back,” the crowd let out a loud cheer.
Netflix competition
Instead of participating in the 2024 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, Chestnut faced off against long-time rival Takeru Kobayashi in a Netflix competition called “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef.” Chestnut won the competition, in the process setting a new world record by gobbling up 83 hot dogs and buns in just 10 minutes.
