In breaking news, Patrick Bertoletti has emerged as the new top dog in the world of frankfurter eating. Bertoletti recently won the prestigious Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, a highly anticipated annual event held on July 4th. This victory marks the end of an era following Joey Chestnut’s falling out with Major League Eating, the event’s organizer. Bertoletti, a 39-year-old from Illinois, devoured an impressive 58 hot dogs in this year’s 10-minute competition, earning himself the coveted Mustard Yellow Belt in the men’s category. Additionally, Miki Sudo set a new record in the women’s division by consuming 51 wieners.
The hot dog eating contest was considered much more wide open this year due to the controversy surrounding the 16-time winner, Joey Chestnut. Major League Eating announced that they were parting ways with Chestnut last month, citing a rule that prohibits participants from striking endorsement deals with competitors of Nathan’s, the hot dog maker. Allegations were made that Chestnut had formed a partnership with a plant-based meat alternative company, which led to his disqualification from the competition. Chestnut, also known as “Jaws,” expressed his disappointment over the decision, claiming that he did not have a contract with MLE or Nathan’s. The relationship between Chestnut and the organization seemed to be strained, although MLE referred to him as an “American hero” and expressed a desire for his return in the future.
Despite the rift between Joey Chestnut and Major League Eating, Chestnut’s legacy in the world of competitive eating remains unparalleled. Chestnut holds an impressive array of eating records in 55 different categories, including eggs, chicken wings, and apple pies. Even Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest website continues to praise Chestnut, referring to him as “the king” in a section commemorating his 2023 victory. ESPN’s broadcast of the 2024 contest acknowledged Chestnut’s absence and the impact it had on the competition, showcasing his significant influence in the sport.
For fans eagerly awaiting Chestnut’s return to the competitive eating scene, there is still hope. Chestnut has organized a hot dog eating contest livestream from the Fort Bliss army base in Texas as a charity fundraiser. The event, scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, serves as a unique opportunity for fans to witness Chestnut’s eating prowess while supporting a noble cause. Despite the recent controversies and setbacks, Chestnut remains a beloved figure in the world of competitive eating, and his enduring legacy continues to captivate audiences around the globe.