Chestnut Returns to Nathan’s Contest, Heavy Favorite in July 4 Showdown

Competitive-eating star Joey “Jaws” Chestnut will return to Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest on 4 July after a one-year absence tied to a sponsorship clash with plant-based rival Impossible Foods. The 41-year-old Californian has won the men’s title 16 times and set the standing world mark of 76 hot dogs and buns in 2021.

Sportsbooks make Chestnut an overwhelming favorite, quoting him between –1600 and –2500, while setting an over/under of 71.5 hot dogs. BetMGM said 86 % of money is on the under, and rival Patrick Bertoletti—the defending champion after eating 58 hot dogs last year—represents the biggest liability for operators. The men’s and women’s winners each receive the $20,000 purse and the coveted Mustard Yellow or Pink Belt.

Chestnut’s comeback restores the contest’s decades-old rivalry dynamic and is expected to boost television ratings for ESPN2, which will air the men’s 12:30 p.m. slot. The event, dating to 1916, draws 15 male and 13 female competitors from five countries. On the women’s side, Tampa-based Miki Sudo seeks an 11th crown after a record 51 hot dogs in 2024.

Organizers said conditions at Coney Island are forecast to be 84 °F with moderate humidity—factors traders will watch closely as bettors speculate whether Chestnut can threaten his own record in the 10-minute chow-down.