Joey Chestnut
Bobby Bank/Getty Images
Competitive eating legend
Joey Chestnut
has hit back after being banned from participating in his sport’s most prestigious event.
On Tuesday, June 11, Major League Eating (MLE) announced that Chestnut, the 16-time Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest champion, would not be allowed to compete this year due to his endorsement of “another hot dog brand.”
In a
statement on Instagram
, Chestnut, 40, refuted MLE’s claims, stating that he does not have a contract with them or Nathan’s, and that the decision to ban him was based on his partnerships with other brands. He assured his fans that this ruling would not affect his participation in the July 4th contest.
It is believed that Chestnut signed a deal with Impossible Foods, a company known for its plant-based meat alternatives, including hot dogs.
MLE expressed their disappointment in a statement to
Us Weekly
, stating that they were “devastated” by Chestnut’s decision to represent a rival brand.
Alexi Rosenfeld/ Getty Images
Chestnut described the situation as “very disappointing,” believing that his absence would deprive fans of the usual excitement and joy associated with the Fourth of July contest. He expressed his love for the event and his dedication to training for it.
Chestnut has dominated the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest for years, winning eight consecutive times. In 2023, he devoured 62 hot dogs and buns, and in 2021, he set a world record by consuming an astonishing 76.
He concluded his statement by thanking his fans for their support and promising to stay hungry and return to competitive eating soon.
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The renowned host of the hot dog eating contest,
George Shea
, expressed his dismay, calling the situation “a gut punch.”
Shea shared his sentiments with
The New York Times
, emphasizing the tradition and significance of the event, especially on the Fourth of July.
Despite the unexpected turn of events, MLE left the door open for Chestnut’s return, acknowledging his status as “an American hero” and expressing their hope for his comeback when he is no longer associated with a rival brand.