Joey Chestnut, a legendary competitive eater, will be competing in a hot dog eating contest against soldiers at Fort Bliss, Texas, on Independence Day after being disqualified from the annual Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July contest in Coney Island due to a sponsorship conflict. Geoffrey Esper, ranked second globally in Major League Eating, aims to clinch victory at the Coney Island event with Joey Chestnut absent, facing tough competition from top eaters like Nick Wehry and James Webb. With Chestnut absent from Coney Island, James Webb, a leading Australian eater, emerges as a strong contender, aiming to surpass his previous hot dog consumption record. The absence of Chestnut in the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest opens up opportunities for new contenders like Webb to claim victory in the prestigious event, setting the stage for a competitive and unpredictable showdown. Despite Chestnut's absence from the traditional contest, the eating competition scene remains vibrant and engaging, with various talented eaters vying for top honors in different locations and events worldwide.