Joey Chestnut will return for the 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Champion “Revitalized” by Chestnut’s Comeback

Competitive eater Patrick “Deep Dish” Bertletti recently appeared on “Fox & Friends First” to talk about his preparations for the upcoming Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and to defend his title against the renowned 16-time champion, Joey Chestnut.

This year’s contest is set to take place at Coney Island on July 4, 2025, following Chestnut’s absence from the 2024 event.

After facing issues last year due to a sponsorship conflict with Impossible Foods, Chestnut has now reached an understanding with the event organizers for this year’s competition.

Chestnut expressed his enthusiasm on social media, writing, “I’m thrilled to be back at Nathan’s famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. This event is an essential part of my life and a celebration of American culture.” He noted that while he collaborates with various companies, including those in the plant-based sector, it doesn’t hinder his love for hot dogs.

“I appreciate different viewpoints, but I’m thankful we could find common ground. I can’t wait to be back on Coney Island’s stage, celebrating July 4th with a hot dog in hand!” he added.

Chestnut is eager to reclaim his title, with sportsbooks currently not predicting any close competition. Last year’s winner, Patrick Bertletti, managed to eat 58 hot dogs in just 10 minutes, but many believe Chestnut has the potential to surpass that record.

If he succeeds, Chestnut will extend his title count to an impressive 17.

While he missed last year’s contest, he participated in a special Netflix event called “Unfinished Beef,” where he ate 83 hot dogs — a remarkable achievement without the use of water soaking.

On the women’s side, Miki Sudo, a three-time champion, is aiming for her 11th pink belt, facing stiff competition from Domenica Dee and Michelle Lesco, who previously claimed victory over Sudo in 2021.

The Nathan’s competition adheres to strict rules, with a time limit of 10 minutes for both male and female categories. The winner is determined by who eats the most hot dogs and buns within that timeframe. In rare situations of a tie, the winner is the first contestant to eat a specified number of hot dogs and buns.