
via Imago
Defending men’s champion Joey Chestnut, left, and defending women’s champion Miki Sudo pose together during Nathan’s Famous international Fourth of July hot dog eating contest weigh-in at the Empire State Building on Wednesday, July 3, 2019, in New York.

via Imago
Defending men’s champion Joey Chestnut, left, and defending women’s champion Miki Sudo pose together during Nathan’s Famous international Fourth of July hot dog eating contest weigh-in at the Empire State Building on Wednesday, July 3, 2019, in New York.
Every year, on the 4th of July, an extraordinary event takes place that tests the limits of human consumption and showcases the incredible talents of competitive eaters. The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, held in the bustling city of New York, has become an iconic tradition that captures the attention of spectators worldwide.
Among the star contenders are two remarkable individuals who have dominated the contest with their insatiable appetites and unparalleled skills: Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo. Let’s delve into their remarkable journeys and discover what makes them the favorites in this extraordinary gastronomic battle.
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Nathan’s hot dog eating contest: A culinary spectacle
For over a century, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs has been the mecca of delectable hot dogs in the heart of Coney Island. The contest started in 1916 when two friends decided to celebrate Independence Day with a friendly hot dog-eating competition.
Little did they know that this event would grow into a legendary contest, attracting top-notch eaters from around the world. Today, the contest is a symbol of American tradition and gastronomic prowess, drawing massive crowds and capturing the imagination of millions.
Who is Joey Chestnut: The king of hot dog contest
Joey Chestnut, an American competitive eater, stands tall as the reigning champion of Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Born on November 25, 1983, this Westfield, Indiana native has revolutionized the sport with his awe-inspiring performances. Standing at an imposing height of 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 m) and weighing 229 pounds (104 kg), Chestnut possesses the perfect physique for conquering the hot dog challenge.
In 2007, Chestnut burst onto the scene by dethroning the six-time defending champion, Takeru “Tsunami” Kobayashi. He consumed a record-breaking 66 hot dogs and buns (HDB) in just 12 minutes. This triumph marked the beginning of an era dominated by Chestnut, who continues to mesmerize spectators with his unmatched consistency.
Over the years, Chestnut has etched his name in history with a series of unprecedented victories. He has won an astounding 15 championships, including eight consecutive titles from 2007 to 2014.
In 2021, he achieved an astonishing feat by consuming 76 hot dogs and buns. That set a new world record for the contest. Despite facing challenges, such as a ruptured tendon in his leg, Chestnut’s unbreakable spirit and unrivaled eating capacity have solidified his status as a true legend of competitive eating.
Joey Chestnut topped his own previous world record by eating 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes! 🌭🤯
MORE: https://t.co/dk234K9mdK pic.twitter.com/Ov7wg4v9Su
— BarDown (@BarDown) July 4, 2021
He is once again the favorite to win the title this year and extend his record to 16 Yellow Mustard Belts.
Who is Miki Sudo: The queen of the hot dog contest
Miki Sudo is an American competitive eater of European American and Japanese heritage. She has emerged as the undisputed champion in the women’s division of the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. With a fiery determination and a stomach of steel, Sudo has shattered records since her debut in 2014.
Sudo’s journey into the world of competitive eating began after winning a pho-eating contest in 2013. Her stardom quickly rose, and by 2014, she had claimed her first Yellow Mustard Belt, ending Sonya Thomas’ reign.
Sudo’s prowess in the sport propelled her to become the top-ranked female competitive eater in Major League Eating, reaching the top three overall in 2015.
— Miki Sudo ⭐️ (@OMGitsMIKI) July 4, 2022
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With eight titles to her name, Sudo’s dedication and perseverance have made her a force to be reckoned with. She holds four world records, including those for Kimchi, Hotdish, ice cream, and the women’s record for hot dogs. Her consistent victories showcase her exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to the art of competitive eating.
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Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo have cemented their places in the history at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Their insatiable appetites, remarkable skill sets, and unyielding determination have captivated audiences around the world. As they continue to break records and redefine the limits of human consumption, we have only one question. What new heights will they reach in the next contest?
So, are you ready to witness the gastronomic battle of the century? Will Joey Chestnut defend his title once again, or will Miki Sudo continue her reign as the hot dog-eating queen? Who’s your favorite to win this year?
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