The Goat returns

JULY 4th is saved!!

Joey Chestnut’s Triumphant Return to Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

After a dramatic 2024 ban over a sponsorship deal with Impossible Foods, Joey “Jaws” Chestnut is back to reclaim his throne at the 2025 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. The 41-year-old competitive eating icon, who holds 55 world records, announced his return on X, calling the Coney Island event a “cherished tradition.” Fans were gutted last year when Chestnut was excluded, with some even boycotting the contest. His 2024 performance at Fort Bliss—57 hot dogs in five minutes—proved he’s still the king, and his Netflix showdown with Kobayashi (83 hot dogs!) showed he’s only getting better. Will Chestnut break his 76-hot-dog record this July 4th? The stage is set for an epic comeback.

- @joeyjaws (June 16, 2025): “I’m thrilled to be returning to the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest. This event means the world to me. It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life.”

- @nypost (June 11, 2024): “Joey Chestnut banned from 2024 Nathan’s hot dog eating contest in beef over vegan franks.”

- @NFL_DovKleiman (July 4, 2023): Highlighted Chestnut’s determination to keep the contest alive during rain in 2023, calling him the “GOAT.” Sources

- NPR, June 12, 2024

- Rolling Stone, June 11, 2024

- USA Today, July 3, 2024

- Netflix Tudum, September 3, 2024

- X posts from @joeyjaws, @nypost, @NFL_DovKleiman

Chestnut’s return is poised to make the 2025 Nathan’s contest a must-watch, with fans and bettors alike wondering if he’ll push the boundaries of his own legendary records. Stay tuned for updates as the Fourth of July approaches!