Introduction to Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest 2025

The Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, a cornerstone of Fourth of July celebrations, returns to Coney Island, Brooklyn, on July 4, 2025. This iconic event, broadcast live on ESPN2 and ESPN3, draws millions of viewers and over 40,000 in-person spectators annually. With competitive eating legend Joey Chestnut making a triumphant return after a controversial 2024 ban, all eyes are on whether he can reclaim the Mustard Belt and surpass his own world record.

Event Details and Schedule

• Date: July 4, 2025
• Location: Surf and Stillwell Avenues, Coney Island, Brooklyn, NYC
• Women’s Competition: Starts at 10:45 a.m. ET (ESPN3)
• Men’s Competition: Begins at 12:00 p.m. ET (ESPN2)
• Streaming: Available on ESPN+ and Fubo (free trial)
• Prize Money: Total purse of $40,000, with $10,000 for each division’s winner, $5,000 for second place, and $2,500 for third place.

Joey Chestnut’s Return and Record

Joey Chestnut, the 16-time champion nicknamed “Jaws,” is back after missing the 2024 contest due to a sponsorship conflict with Impossible Foods, a plant-based hot dog brand. Chestnut holds the official Nathan’s record, eating 76 hot dogs and buns (HDB) in 10 minutes in 2021. In 2024, he set an unofficial record of 83 HDB in a Netflix-streamed competition against Takeru Kobayashi, though it wasn’t sanctioned by Major League Eating (MLE). Chestnut aims to break his 76 HDB record, with betting odds setting his over/under at 71.5 and 7-2 odds to reach 84 HDB. Ideal conditions—around 75-78°F, low humidity, and no wind—are crucial for fresh buns and warm hot dogs to maximize his performance.

Key Competitors to Watch

Men’s Division

• Joey Chestnut: The favorite with -2500 odds, Chestnut has dominated, winning 16 of the last 17 contests he entered, only losing to Matt Stonie in 2015. His 2021 record of 76 HDB remains unmatched.
• Patrick Bertoletti: The 2024 champion, who ate 58 HDB, faces a tough challenge against Chestnut. Bertoletti, nicknamed “Deep Dish,” expressed mixed feelings about competing against his friend but acknowledged the event’s heightened excitement with Chestnut’s return.
• Geoffrey Esper: A consistent contender with second and third-place finishes, he’s a long shot at +2200 odds.
• Other Competitors: The 2025 field includes top eaters from the US, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, and England, with some making their Coney Island debut.

Women’s Division

• Miki Sudo: The reigning champion, Sudo set a women’s world record in 2024 with 51 HDB, securing her 10th title since 2014. With -130 odds to exceed 45.5 HDB, she’s expected to dominate again. Sudo also holds a record for eating six hot dogs in one minute.
• Other Notable Competitors: The women’s field includes a unique mother-daughter team, adding intrigue to the competition. Sudo’s husband, Nick Wehry, competes in the men’s division.

Historical Context and Records

The Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, a tradition since 1916, became an official Fourth of July event in 1972. Competitors have 10 minutes to consume as many hot dogs and buns as possible, with MLE overseeing the rules. Chestnut’s 76 HDB in 2021 is the men’s record, while Sudo’s 51 HDB in 2024 is the women’s record. Chestnut’s unofficial 83 HDB in 2024 against Kobayashi highlights his capacity to push boundaries, but the Nathan’s stage remains the ultimate test.

How to Watch and Follow

• TV Channels: Women’s contest on ESPN3, men’s on ESPN2.
• Streaming: ESPN+ and Fubo offer live coverage, with Fubo providing a free trial.
• Live Updates: The Sporting News and The US Sun provide real-time results and updates.
• Social Media: Follow Major League Eating (@eatingcontest) on X for live posts and highlights.

Additional Notes

• PETA Presence: PETA is expected to make an appearance at the event, continuing their advocacy, which may spark discussions.
• Cultural Significance: Chestnut describes the contest as “patriotic-adjacent,” uniting people in a uniquely American tradition.
• Weather Impact: Chestnut emphasized that ideal weather—warm but not hot, with minimal wind and humidity—could be key to breaking his record. Last year’s stormy conditions affected performance, particularly for Sudo.

Conclusion

The 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest promises high-stakes drama with Joey Chestnut’s return and his pursuit of a new record. As he faces off against Patrick Bertoletti and Miki Sudo defends her title, the Coney Island stage is set for a historic showdown. Tune in on July 4 to witness this iconic American spectacle and see if Chestnut can surpass his legendary 76 HDB mark.