Competitive eater Joey “Jaws” Chestnut won the annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, consuming nearly 71 hot dogs in 10 minutes.
Since 1972, the annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest has been held in Coney Island, New York, every Fourth of July. Contestants attempt to eat as many hot dogs as they can within 10 minutes. This year’s winner, Chestnut of Indiana, consumed 70 and a half hot dogs within the time limit, reclaiming the Mustard Belt for the 17th time.
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He was short of beating his record in 2021 when he consumed 76 hot dogs. Chestnut skipped last year’s competition due to a sponsorship dispute.
“Man, I wish I could have ate a couple more. I’m sorry, guys,” Chestnut said after the scarf-fest. “My goal was 70 to 77. I really wanted a little bit more.”
“I’ll be back next year,” he added. “I’m just happy I’m here, and happy Fourth of July.”
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On the women’s side, Miki Sudo of Florida defended her title by eating 33 hot dogs, gaining her 11th title. Sudo was short of her record last year when she ate 51 hot dogs.
“I feel like I let the fans down a little bit. I heard people in the crowd saying, ‘Go for 52,’” Sudo told ESPN. “Obviously, I’m always setting my goals high, but the hot dogs weren’t cooperating. For some reason, the buns felt larger today.”