The traditional hot dog competition in New York’s Coney Island neighborhood on the 4th of July has been known far beyond the borders of the US for years. But now 16-time champion Joey Chestnut has been banned from the event.
The reason: The ‘American hero’ Chestnut has signed a contract with a competitor of his previous sponsor. His new partner is mainly a manufacturer of plant-based meat substitutes.
Organizer “devastated”
Major League Eating, co-host of the annual Fourth of July Independence Day hot dog competition in Coney Island, said Tuesday it was “devastated” by Chestnut’s deal with the rival company. “To my fans: I love and appreciate you. Rest assured, you’ll see me eating again soon. Stay informed and stay hungry!”, he reports.
Traditional eating competition since 1916
The event on Brooklyn’s Coney Island Peninsula, which takes place in front of the company’s long-standing cult snack bar, will feature Nathan brand hot dogs. The tradition of the competition dates back to 1916.
“Don’t worry, you’ll see me eating again soon!”
Chestnut himself was “bitterly disappointed” by his disqualification: “I am happy to participate in this match” and he has been training to defend his title, Chestnut explained. But he sent a combative message to his fans: “Rest assured, you’ll see me eating again soon!”
Anyone who vomits will be disqualified
Chestnut has not only won the Coney Island competition no less than 16 times, but also set a world record there in 2021 by devouring 76 hot dogs in ten minutes – without vomiting, because then participants are disqualified.
Also record holder for devouring dumplings
Chestnut also holds records for devouring other foods, from asparagus to gyozas and Japanese dumplings. However, these eating competitions are not without controversy in the US. Critics say they send the wrong message in a country where more than one in three adults is obese.
Source: Krone
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