Competitive eating star Joey “Jaws” Chestnut has been left out of America’s premiere hot dog contest after striking a deal with a vegan brand, sparking controversy in the world of competitive eating.
His exclusion from the upcoming Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in New York came after he secured sponsorship from Impossible Foods, a vegan hot dog maker that competes with the Nathan’s brand. Major League Eating (MLE) expressed disappointment in Chestnut’s decision, stating that he could only rejoin the competition if he dropped his vegan sponsorship.
Known for his impressive eating abilities, Chestnut has won the Nathan’s contest a record 16 times and holds the world record for hot dog consumption, having devoured 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes at the 2021 contest. He also boasts a range of other eating records, from hard-boiled eggs to chicken wings.
Expressing his disappointment on social media, Chestnut stated that he had been training to defend his title and clarified that he did not have a contract with MLE or Nathan’s. MLE, on the other hand, mentioned that they had made efforts to accommodate Chestnut but felt that he and his team prioritized the new partnership over the competition.
The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, a Fourth of July tradition since 1916, has a rich history that dates back to a hot dog eating contest among four European immigrants to determine who was the most American. While the true origins of the event remain unclear, it has become a beloved annual tradition attended by thousands.
Chestnut’s exclusion from the contest has stirred debate among fans and competitors alike, with many questioning the role of sponsorship in competitive eating and the future of the sport. As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the upcoming Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest to see who will emerge victorious in Chestnut’s absence.
