Chestnut won his first Nathan's contest in 2007
Before Joey Chestnut emerged on the scene, the reigning champion of the hot dog eating contest was Takeru Kobayashi from Japan. Kobayashi had already made a significant impact on the competition by breaking previous records. For instance, in 2000, the winner Kazutoyo Arai consumed 25 hot dogs (and buns) in ten minutes. The following year, Kobayashi astonished everyone by devouring 50 hot dogs. From 2001 to 2006, Kobayashi held the title of hot dog eating champion.
This changed in 2007 when a newcomer, Joey Chestnut, made his debut at the Nathan's competition. In his first hot dog eating event, Chestnut set a new record by consuming 66 franks. Over the next few years, Kobayashi continued to compete and even came close to reclaiming his title the year after losing it to Chestnut. However, Kobayashi eventually shifted his focus away from hot dogs, as Chestnut continued to break his own records. Chestnut's victory over Kobayashi in 2007 marked the beginning of an impressive eight-year winning streak.
He won every year from 2007 to 2014...
During that time, Chestnut focused on honing his hot dog eating skills while also participating in various other eating competitions, such as consuming 390 shrimp wontons in just eight minutes. Chestnut is undoubtedly a formidable competitor, no matter the food, but the Nathan's hot dog eating contest was his to lose. One can only imagine that going up against Chestnut felt akin to playing one-on-one against LeBron James; it’s not a matter of if you’ll lose, but when. As the years passed, the gap between Chestnut and his nearest rival only grew wider.
For example, in 2013, Chestnut devoured 18 more hot dogs than the second-place finisher, Matthew Stonie. However, Stonie didn’t forget that defeat. Two years later, in 2015, the then 23-year-old competitive eater pulled off a stunning upset by beating Chestnut 62 to 60. A lesser competitor might have let that setback end their career, but Chestnut took it in stride. The following year, he returned with a fierce determination.
...And every year from 2016 to today
In 2016, Chestnut reclaimed his title at the Nathan's hot dog eating contest from Stonie by shattering yet another record: consuming 70 hot dogs in just ten minutes. If you’ve never witnessed competitive hot dog eating, it’s certainly not the most pleasant sight. A line of contestants bouncing around and grimacing as they force down soggy, mushy hot dogs is, to put it mildly, quite unsettling. However, it offers a captivating glimpse into the mindset of these competitors. Watching Chestnut during the 2016 event, you can’t help but admire his resolve. It almost appears as if he’s in agony, as if he might burst from the sheer volume of hot dogs in his stomach, yet the methodical manner in which he continues to consume food showcases sheer human determination.
Year after year, Chestnut dominates the hot dog eating contest, leaving little opportunity for his rivals. He consistently finishes with over 70 franks. In 2020, he achieved an astonishing victory with a 33 hot dog lead. One might think that after devouring so many hot dogs, Chestnut would grow weary of them. However, he actually enjoys a good hot dog, especially when prepared just right.
He broke the hot dog eating World Record in 2021
In the realm of sports, some records are truly astonishing, such as Simone Biles' 23 gold medals or Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game. This is somewhat akin to the feat of Joey Chestnut devouring 76 hot dogs in just ten minutes. Let's face it: competitive eating, with its physical demands and extensive preparation, is undoubtedly a sport. To set the hot dog eating World Record in 2021, Chestnut underwent rigorous training, which included practice sessions, jaw and mouth exercises, and running. Unsurprisingly, he clinched the 2021 title and the coveted Mustard Yellow Belt for the sixth consecutive year.
As of this writing, Chestnut has triumphed in the Nathan's hot dog eating contest 16 times. Throughout the event's history, no one has surpassed his remarkable achievements. However, there’s always an opportunity for new challengers, so with some dedication, you too could claim the Mustard Yellow Belt! Just be sure to start your training with some delightfully crispy hot dogs.
He was the subject of an ESPN '30 for 30' episode
In 2019, ESPN premiered a documentary series titled "30 for 30: The Good, The Bad, The Hungry." The series was well-received and provided a comprehensive exploration of the rivalry between Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi. It details Chestnut's journey to fame, juxtaposed with Kobayashi's established status in the competitive eating scene at that time. The film includes some troubling moments; George Shea, co-founder of the Major League Eating (MLE) and host of the Nathan's contest, made a nationalistic comment to the Washington Post, stating, "How can the Japanese guy beat the American? America's honor is at stake."
While many Americans may have echoed this sentiment, it is important to recognize Kobayashi's role in elevating the competition, and their rivalry has always been characterized by mutual respect. Chestnut remarked of Kobayashi, "Other competitive eaters viewed him as unbeatable... He wasn't just an eater; he was a god." Unfortunately, Kobayashi announced his retirement from competitive eating earlier this year. Although Chestnut has been excluded from this year's Nathan's competition, his desire for victory remains strong.
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