Joey Chestnut returns to reclaim his title at Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest

The annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest took place on July 4, 2025, at the original Nathan's Famous location on Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York. Competitive eater Joey Chestnut, known as the champion of the event, made his comeback this year after missing the competition in 2024 due to a dispute involving his sponsorship with Impossible Foods, a competitor in the plant-based market. This year, he sought to reclaim his title against the defending champion Patrick Bertoletti, who won in Chestnut's absence by eating 58 hot dogs and buns. The women’s competition featured reigning champion Miki Sudo aiming for her 11th title after setting a record of 51 hot dogs last year. In this year's contest, the men’s and women’s categories featured competitors from various states and countries, emphasizing the international appeal of the sport. While competitors have a strict time limit of 10 minutes to consume as many hot dogs and buns as possible, the competition is more than just a gastronomic spectacle; it has become a cultural tradition synonymous with American Independence Day celebrations. Chestnut entered the contest hungry for victory and aiming to break his own world record of 76 hot dogs and buns, which he achieved in 2021. The event not only showcases competitive eating but also highlights the festive atmosphere surrounding Independence Day in the United States. Spectators often gather in large numbers, creating a lively backdrop that reflects local and national pride. This year's event also included a mix of seasoned veterans competing alongside newcomers, showing the growing interest in competitive eating as a sport. Overall, the 2025 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest marked a significant moment for Joey Chestnut, who not only sought to restore his legacy but also emphasized the importance of the competition in his life and its place in American culture. As the event has evolved over the years, it continues to attract viewers and media attention, establishing itself as a staple of American summer festivities.