Joey Chestnut made a spectacular comeback at the 2025 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held on July 4 in Coney Island, New York. After missing the previous year’s event due to a ban stemming from an endorsement deal with a rival brand, Chestnut returned with a vengeance, devouring 70.5 hot dogs and buns in just 10 minutes. This impressive feat earned him his 17th mustard belt, further solidifying his legacy in the competitive eating world.
Chestnut, now 41, was just shy of his personal record of 76 hot dogs, which he set in 2021. Following the contest, he expressed regret for not eating more but promised fans that he would return next year, hinting at his relentless drive for improvement.
The runner-up, Patrick Bertoletti, fell significantly behind with a total of 46.5 hot dogs, while James Webb secured third place with 45.5. In the women’s competition, Miki Sudo claimed victory by consuming 33 hot dogs, marking her 11th win. Despite her success, Sudo expressed disappointment, especially after having broken the women’s record last year with 51 hot dogs. “For some reason, the buns felt larger today,” she commented, reflecting the often unpredictable nature of competitive eating.
Chestnut’s absence from the 2024 contest was a notable event, as he was banned for signing an endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, a company that produces plant-based hot dogs. Major League Eating (MLE), the governing body of the contest, stated that they had made considerable efforts to accommodate Chestnut’s new partnership but ultimately could not reach an agreement. Chestnut took to Instagram to voice his frustrations, claiming that MLE was trying to impose restrictions on competitors’ affiliations with food brands.
In his absence, Bertoletti took home the title in 2024, eating 58 hot dogs. However, Chestnut teased his comeback soon after, telling Us Weekly that he was eager to return to the competition. “I’d love to go back because this year I have to eat hot dogs without dunking,” he explained, indicating that he had been refining his technique in preparation.
As the day of the contest approached, Chestnut shared insights into his training regimen. He revealed that he often simulates contests, practicing swallowing air and focusing on flexibility exercises to prepare his stomach. “I usually watch some old practices,” he said, adding that he goes to bed early and wakes up at 5 a.m. to begin his stretching routine. He also consumes aloe vera juice to keep his throat lubricated and avoids solid foods leading up to the event.
On the day of the contest, he typically eats a hot dog at the weigh-in, accompanied by a light breakfast of eggs or a protein shake. After the competition, his focus shifts to recovery, often spending the rest of the holiday resting. “Usually I’m in bed,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of recuperation after such a demanding event.
Chestnut’s victory at the 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest not only marks a return to form but also reinforces his status as a cultural icon in America. The event has become a beloved tradition, and Chestnut’s participation is a highlight for fans across the nation. As he continues to break records and inspire future competitors, the excitement surrounding this annual contest shows no signs of waning.
For fans of competitive eating and those who enjoy the spectacle of Chestnut’s feats, the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest remains a quintessential part of American summer celebrations. With each passing year, the stakes rise, and the performances become more thrilling, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what next Fourth of July will bring.
