Joey “Jaws” Chestnut easily reclaimed his title at this year’s Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest. This was his glorious return to Coney Island after he did not attend last year’s competition. The winner won the title by beating 14 opponents. These competitors came from all over the world including Australia, the Czech Republic, Ontario, England, and Brazil. This year, Chestnut set a new personal best, ensuring that he is once again crowned as the reigning competitive eating heavyweight champ.
Last year, Chestnut was forced to sit out the legendary contest over a contract spat. Commentator George Shea made the case publicly at the same time. He put on full display his talent in consuming absurd amounts of food at a showcase event at Fort Bliss, El Paso, Texas. In only five minutes, he ate 57 hot dogs! Reflecting on his absence from Nathan’s contest, Chestnut expressed his happiness about returning to the event he considers “a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.”
This year’s contest had an incredibly competitive class, but no one was able to keep pace with Chestnut in terms of mastery or timeliness. He even defeated last year’s titlist, Chicago’s Patrick Bertoletti. Bertoletti had eaten 58 hot dogs to win the men’s title. At the same time on the national circuit, Miki Sudo of Tampa, Florida, extended her record with a 33-hot dog performance netting her 11th title.
Six-time champion Joey “Jaws” Chestnut said he was looking forward to competing again at the storied event. He called last year’s show “fantastic.” There was one thing he couldn’t wait to eat this July Fourth — “a ton of” hot dogs. His comeback in the Nathan’s contest gave him a new lease on life for the Fourth of July tradition. Explore This beautiful tradition has enchanted visitors for decades.
“I should have made that more clear with Nathan’s.” – Joey “Jaws” Chestnut
This season, fangirls screamed as the energy swirled in his presence. Chestnut had demonstrated his unparalleled execution, reminding everyone yet again why he’s one of the most revered competitive eaters of all time. His amazing talent for shoveling tons of tasty food into his mouth in record time continues to fascinate his fans. … It even keeps his competitors in awe!
