BROOKLYN, NY — Competitive eating legend Joey “Jaws” Chestnut made a triumphant return to Coney Island on Friday, reclaiming his crown at the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, devouring 70.5 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes.
The 41-year-old Westfield, Indiana native clinched his 17th Mustard Belt in 20 appearances at the world-famous competition. Chestnut missed last year’s contest due to a contract dispute after signing a deal with rival brand Impossible Foods.
“I wish I ate a couple more. Sorry guys,” Chestnut told the roaring crowd, many chanting his name. “I’ll be back next year.”
Though short of his jaw-dropping 2021 world record of 76 hot dogs, Chestnut easily bested 14 competitors from across the globe, including challengers from Australia, the Czech Republic, Brazil, England, and Canada. Last year’s champion, Patrick Bertoletti of Chicago, finished second with 46.5 hot dogs, falling far behind Chestnut’s total.
In the women’s division, Tampa, Florida’s Miki Sudo captured her 11th title, eating 33 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes. The No. 5-ranked Major League Eater was visibly disappointed, falling well short of her personal best of 51 hot dogs, set last year.
“I feel like I let the fans down a little bit,” Sudo admitted. “The hot dogs weren’t cooperating. The buns felt larger today.”
The annual eat-a-thon, held outside the original Nathan’s Famous restaurant in Coney Island since 1972, drew a massive crowd, many donning foam hot dog hats and waving American flags. Fans were especially eager to witness Chestnut’s highly anticipated comeback.
“As soon as I found out I was coming, my body — it was easy to train. I love doing it. And I love pushing myself and beating the heck out of people,” Chestnut told ESPN after his victory.
With his 17th Mustard Belt secured, Chestnut remains the undisputed king of competitive eating and vowed to be back next year to defend his title once again.
