Joey Chestnut ‘gutted’ to hear of exclusion from famed hot dog eating contest

He’s the largest title within the historical past of aggressive eating and a fixture on the annual Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest. However, 16-time champion Joey Chestnut stated he was “gutted” to discover out he was being “banned” from this yr’s occasion.

Major League Eating, which companions with Nathan’s to arrange the contest, did not go as far as to explicitly prohibit Chestnut from competing. But the group did announce Tuesday that it was “devastated” to be taught he has chosen to accomplice with rival hot dog model Impossible Foods “somewhat than competing within the 2024 Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest.”

“For almost twenty years we have now labored below the identical primary hot dog exclusivity provisions,” MLE stated in an announcement. “However, it appears that evidently Joey and his managers have prioritized a brand new partnership with a unique hot dog model over our long-time relationship. … We hope that he returns when he’s not representing a rival model.”

In response, Chestnut took to social media to accuse MLE and Nathan’s of altering the foundations of previous years over which company sponsors he’s allowed to affiliate with.

“This is seemingly the premise on which I’m being banned, and it does not impression the July 4th occasion,” Chestnut stated. “Sadly, that is the choice Nathan’s and Major League Eating are making, and it’ll deprive the nice followers of the vacation’s typical pleasure and leisure. To my followers, I really like you and recognize you. Rest assured that you just’ll see me eat once more quickly!! STAY HUNGRY!”

Chestnut has received 17 of the final 18 Fourth of July hot dog eating contests hosted by Nathan’s and MLE. He was once more topped champion final yr after eating 62 hot canines and buns in 10 minutes — 13 greater than the following closest competitor.

Joey Chestnut Hot Dog Eating Contest

Generally, it is most likely not a good suggestion to down 62 franks in a single sitting, as that’s the equal of almost 18,000 energy. To put that into perspective, 28-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps says he consumed 8,000-10,000 energy per day on the peak of his swimming profession.

But for Chestnut, successful the competitors is way larger — and extra necessary — than most can abdomen.

“I really like competing in that occasion,” he stated. “I really like celebrating America with my followers throughout this nice nation on the 4th and I’ve been coaching to defend my title.”