Today marks the beginning of a new era in one of America’s more unique pastimes, hot dog eating contests. This year the 16-time champion Joey Chestnut will not be participating.
The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Championship banned Chestnut from participating over his affiliation with a rival brand, Impossible Foods.
Despite being banned from the contest at Coney Island, Chestnut will still be trying to set records today. He will be taking part in an event at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, where he will compete with U.S. Army service members.
In the competition in Texas Chestnut has said he hopes to devour more hotdogs in 5 minutes than the winner at Coney Island does in 10 minutes.
“I think 56 is doable,’’ said Chestnut, who in 2021 set the Nathan’s record with 76 hot dogs and buns. “I’d be very happy to do that.’’
You may not be able to watch the Fort Bliss event on live television, but you can watch the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and see how Chestnut’s competition performs.
How to Watch the Hot Dog Eating Contest
- Start time: 10:45 a.m. ET (Live Coverage Begins, Women’s Competition)
- TV channel: ESPN2
- Men’s Competition: 12 p.m. ET