Joey Chestnut is an American legend. He’s as American as apple pie. He’s also traditionally been one of the biggest figures as America celebrates its birthday on July 4.
Of course, we are talking about the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest on the 4th of July in Coney Island.
He’s a 16-time winner of the annual event. As noted above, he’s an absolute legend.
Unfortunately, we’re not going to be able to enjoy Chestnut’s antics this year. Major League Eating announced on Tuesday that Chestnut is not eligible to compete this year because he partnered with a rival brand by the name of Impossible Foods.
“We are devastated to learn that Joey Chestnut has chosen to represent a rival brand that sells plant-based hot dogs rather than competing in the 2024 Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest,” Major League Eating said in a statement. “MLE and Nathan’s went to great lengths in recent months to accomodate Joey and his management team, agreeing to the appearance fee and allowing Joey to compete in a rival unbranded hot dog eating contest on Labor Day.”
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Joey Chestnut Responds To Being Banned From Hot Dog Eating Contest
It’s pretty ridiculous that Chestnut has been banned from competing this year simply because he signed an endorsement deal.
The champion responded in kind.
“I was gutted to learn from the media that after 19 years Im banned from the Nathan’s July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest. I love competing in that event, I love celebrating America with my fans all over this great country on the 4th and I have been training to defend my title.
To set the record straight, I do not have a contract with MLE or Nathans and they are looking to change the rules from past years as it relates to other partners I can work with. This is apparently the basis on which I’m being banned, and it doesn’t impact the July 4th event.”
Statement from Joey Chestnut
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