Joey Chestnut Returns Nathan's Hot Dog Contest Coney Island

Joey Chestnut, the 16-time champion of the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, announced he will return to compete in the 2025 event after missing the 2024 contest due to a sponsorship dispute with Major League Eating related to his deal with plant-based meat company Impossible Foods. Chestnut clarified he never appeared in commercials for Impossible Foods' vegan hot dogs and stated Nathan’s is the only hot dog company he has worked with, noting that differences in contract interpretation have been resolved. Despite his absence last year, Chestnut maintained his competitive edge by winning a five-minute hot dog eating contest against four U.S. Army soldiers, consuming 57 hot dogs. The 2024 title was won by Patrick Bertoletti, who ate 58 hot dogs, marking the first time since 2015 that Chestnut did not claim the mustard belt. Organizers and Chestnut expressed enthusiasm for his return, considering it a significant moment for competitive eating and the broader tradition of the contest. The 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest will take place at Coney Island on July 4, with Chestnut eager to reclaim his status and celebrate this quintessential American tradition.