On Friday, Joey “Jaws” Chestnut reclaimed his title as the champion of the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held at Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York. After a one-year absence due to a sponsorship dispute with Major League Eating (MLE) involving plant-based meat brand Impossible Foods, Chestnut returned with a vengeance, dominating the competition by consuming 70.5 hot dogs and buns (HDB) in 10 minutes to secure his record-extending 17th Mustard Belt.
A Dominant Performance
Chestnut, a 41-year-old competitive eating legend from Westfield, Indiana, outperformed a field of 14 competitors, finishing 24 hot dogs ahead of the runner-up, Patrick Bertoletti, who consumed 46.5 HDB. Bertoletti, the 2024 champion during Chestnut’s absence, couldn’t keep pace with Chestnut’s relentless eating prowess. James Webb placed third with 45.5 HDB. Despite falling short of his personal best of 76 HDB set in 2021, Chestnut’s performance was a testament to his enduring dominance in the sport. “I was nervous. First couple of hot dogs I was fumbling a little bit,” Chestnut admitted to ESPN, adding, “I found a pretty good rhythm. My goal was 70 to 77. I really wanted a little bit more. There’s next year and I’m just happy to be here.”
The Road to Redemption
Chestnut’s 2024 ban stemmed from a misunderstanding over his endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, which MLE deemed a violation of their exclusivity provisions. After resolving the conflict and signing a three-year contract with Nathan’s in June 2025, Chestnut was welcomed back to the iconic Coney Island stage. His return was met with enthusiastic chants of “Joey, Joey, Joey!” from a large crowd, many sporting foam hot dog hats and Chestnut memorabilia.
In his absence from the 2024 Nathan’s contest, Chestnut competed in alternative events, most notably a Netflix-streamed head-to-head match against longtime rival Takeru Kobayashi on September 2, 2024. There, he set an unofficial world record by devouring 83 HDB in 10 minutes, showcasing his unmatched capacity. At Fort Bliss’ Pop Goes the Fort celebration in 2024, Chestnut ate 57 hot dogs in just five minutes, nearly matching Bertoletti’s 10-minute winning total of 58 HDB at Nathan’s.
The Women’s Competition
In the women’s division, Miki Sudo, another competitive eating titan, secured her 11th title by consuming 33 HDB, outpacing runner-up Michelle Lesco (22.75 HDB) and Domenica Dee (21.5 HDB). While Sudo’s performance was dominant, it fell short of her 2024 record of 51 HDB. She expressed disappointment, noting to ESPN, “I heard people in the crowd saying go for 52. Obviously, I’m always setting my goals high, but the hot dogs just weren’t cooperating.”
A Celebration of Tradition
The 2025 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held at the original Nathan’s location at Surf and Stillwell Avenues, continued its storied tradition dating back to 1916. Competitors faced off on a raised platform, with water and other non-alcoholic beverages permitted to aid in swallowing, though utensils and condiments were prohibited. The event, sanctioned by Major League Eating since 1997, drew global attention, with live coverage on ESPN and ESPN2, and a festive atmosphere amplified by colorful announcers and a public weigh-in with New York City’s mayor the day prior.
Chestnut’s Legacy
Chestnut, ranked first in the world by Major League Eating, holds 55 world records across various disciplines, from asparagus (12 lbs., 8.75 oz. in 10 minutes) to Twinkies (121 in 6 minutes). His 17 Nathan’s victories, including eight consecutive titles from 2016 to 2023, solidify his status as the greatest competitive eater in history. His 2025 performance added to his career total of 1,284.5 HDB across 20 Nathan’s appearances, averaging 64.225 HDB per contest.
Despite not breaking his 2021 record, Chestnut’s return was a resounding success, reaffirming his place as the “GOAT of gluttons.” He vowed to return in 2026, aiming to push his limits further. “I’m thrilled to be returning,” Chestnut said before the event. “This event means the world to me. It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.”
