Joey Chestnut wins 15th Mustard Belt at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
Joey Chestnut didn’t let a protester get in his way as the world champion secured his 15th Mustard Belt at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.
Claire Hardwick, USA TODAY
The annual tradition of watching competitive eaters furiously shove hot dogs in their mouths on the 4th of July continues this year as the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest returns to Coney Island.
World Champion Joey Chestnut and top-ranked female Miki Sudo look to defend their titles during the 10-minute, all-you-can-eat contest. Chestnut won the men’s competition last year after eating 63 hot dogs and buns, while Sudo took home the women’s crown after eating 40 hot dogs and buns.
Chestnut set a world record in 2021 by eating 76 hot dogs while Sudo’s record is 48½ hot dogs.
“The Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest is the crucible through which greatness is forged,” said Major League Eating Chair George Shea in a news release. “On Independence Day 2023, we will once again celebrate the birth of this nation and the champion of the Fourth of July.”
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2023 iteration of the contest.
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How to watch Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest 2023
ESPN has the exclusive rights to broadcast the contest and will continue to do so at least through 2029.
According to the network, coverage of the women’s competition begins Tuesday at 10:45 a.m. ET on ESPN3. The men’s competition airs at Noon ET on ESPN2.
“SportsCenter” anchor John Anderson and Major League Eating President Rich Shea will serve as the hosts for the even, with Renee James serving as the on-site reporter.
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Who is competing in the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest this year?
In addition to Chestnut, the competitors on the men’s side include Geoffrey Esper, James Webb, Matt Stonie and Nick Wehry, among others.
On the women’s side, competitors such as Michelle Lesco, Sarah Rodriguez and Larell Marie Mele will take on reigning champion Sudo for the Mustard Belt.
