Joey Chestnut Returns Nathan's Hot Dog Contest After Year Ban

Joey Chestnut, the 16-time champion of the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, is making a highly anticipated return in 2025 after missing the 2024 event due to a sponsorship dispute involving plant-based meat brand Impossible Foods. Chestnut and Nathan's have resolved their differences, clearing the way for him to compete again and aim for his 17th title and potentially break his own record of 76 hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes. Last year, in his absence, Patrick Bertoletti won the men's title, while Miki Sudo defended her women's title with a record 51 hot dogs. Chestnut emphasized that he had never endorsed Impossible Foods in commercials and reaffirmed his exclusive partnership with Nathan's, attributing the previous misunderstanding to a lack of clear communication. Fans at Coney Island eagerly anticipate Chestnut's return, which brings a heightened level of excitement to the event, especially after his recent performance of eating 83 hot dogs in 10 minutes during a Netflix contest. The Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest remains a storied tradition, drawing large crowds and international competitors, with Chestnut firmly positioned as the event's iconic figure.