Joey Chestnut Returns to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest After Sponsorship Dispute

Joey Chestnut's Return to Competition

• 🏆 Joey Chestnut is back to compete in the Nathan's Famous hot dog eating contest after a one-year absence.
• 🗓️ He missed last year's event due to a sponsorship dispute with Major League Eating over a deal with Impossible Foods.
• ❤️ Chestnut expressed that missing the contest made him appreciate it more and motivated him to work harder to return.

The Sponsorship Scandal and Resolution

• 🌭 The dispute arose when Chestnut made a deal with Impossible Foods to represent a vegan hot dog brand.
• 🚫 Major League Eating did not approve, leading to his exclusion from the 2023 contest.
• ✅ The conflict has since been resolved, with Chestnut signing a three-year deal that requires him to represent the Nathan's brand during the competition.
• 🤝 He can still work with Impossible Foods outside of the Nathan's event.

Chestnut's Dominance and Record

• 🥇 Chestnut is a 16-time champion and holds the record for eating 72 hot dogs in 10 minutes, set four years ago.
• 📈 He is the overwhelming favorite to win his 17th Mustard Belt.
• ⚖️ Weighing in at 238 pounds, Chestnut feels he can top his previous record of 76 hot dogs.

Rivalry Renewed

• 👑 Last year's crown was won by Patrick Bertoletti, a Chicago native, when Chestnut was absent.
• 🆚 The contest will feature a renewed rivalry between Chestnut and Bertoletti.
• 🤩 Chestnut has won eight consecutive contests prior to last year and is aiming for his 17th title.