Joey Chestnut’s Return to the Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest

For many Americans, the Fourth of July isn’t complete without Joey Chestnut. On America’s 250th birthday, people will tune in at noon to see his remarkable eating feats.

Joey Chestnut has dominated Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, seeking his 18th Mustard Yellow Belt in 19 attempts. He first won in 2007, breaking Takeru Kobayashi’s six-year streak. That year, Chestnut consumed 66 hot dogs, beating Kobayashi’s 63.

The rivalry continued, with Chestnut defeating Kobayashi narrowly in the following two years. Kobayashi’s ban from the contest in 2010 allowed Chestnut to capture the title uncontested until Matt Stonie’s upset victory in 2015. Despite this, Chestnut reclaimed dominance, winning the next eight contests.

In 2024, Chestnut missed the event due to a sponsorship conflict but returned in 2025 to triumph with 70.5 hot dogs. Reflecting on his return, Chestnut shared with Fox News Digital, “It’s great to be back. I love eating, traveling, and meeting happy people.”

Chestnut faced obstacles beyond the competition. In 2022, he subdued a protester mid-contest but still ate 63 hot dogs. His 2026 participation was jeopardized by a battery charge, yet he remains eligible while on probation.

Chestnut’s record stands at 76 hot dogs, set in 2021. He surpasses his previous records from 2020 and 2018. Chestnut emphasizes the event’s broader significance. “It’s not just about me or the hot dogs. It’s a Fourth of July celebration,” he told Fox News.

The contest is integral to New York City’s celebrations, and Chestnut feels privileged to be part of it.

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