Joey Chestnut’s legacy in competitive eating grows with his recent triumph at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Securing his 18th title, Chestnut consumed 66 hot dogs and buns at Coney Island. This win marks his 10th consecutive victory, after missing the 2024 event due to sponsorship conflicts.
Despite a slow start, Chestnut showed dominance, pulling ahead of competitors Patrick Bertoletti and James Webb after the initial 90 seconds. At three minutes, Chestnut led with 28, while Webb and Bertoletti trailed behind. By the contest’s halfway point, Chestnut had reached 42 hot dogs, creating a 10-dog gap.
As the clock wound down, Chestnut was approaching the contest’s record pace of 76. Challenges arose with fatigue and the heat affecting performance. Ultimately, he secured a total of 66 hot dogs, acknowledging he couldn’t reach the record but remained focused on clinching the win.
This event occurred during his 180-day probation following a misdemeanor battery conviction. Permissions were granted enabling his participation in New York.
In the women’s category, Miki Sudo continued her dominance with 39 hot dogs and buns, celebrating her consistent winning streak since 2014.