The world of competitive eating saw a new champion emerge at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest this year. Patrick Bertoletti, a 39-year-old from Illinois, stole the show by consuming a whopping 58 hot dogs in the 10-minute competition. This victory not only earned him the coveted Mustard Yellow Belt in the men’s category but also marked the end of an era following Joey Chestnut’s 16-time win streak.
The Beef Between Chestnut and MLE
Joey Chestnut, also known as “Jaws,” had a falling out with Major League Eating (MLE) prior to this year’s competition. MLE cited a rule that prohibits participants from striking endorsement deals with competitors of hot dog maker Nathan’s, resulting in Chestnut’s banishment from the event. The organization claimed that Chestnut had partnered with a plant-based meat alternative company, going against their long-standing relationship.
In the women’s division, Miki Sudo set a new record by devouring 51 hot dogs, solidifying her dominance in the competitive eating world. With Chestnut out of the picture, the contest was considered much more open this year, with new champions rising to the occasion and showcasing their skills.
Despite the rift between Chestnut and MLE, the organization still recognized his contributions to competitive eating. Chestnut, who holds records in 55 different categories, including eggs, chicken wings, and apple pies, was praised as an “American hero” by MLE. Nathan’s website also highlighted Chestnut’s achievements, calling him the “king” of competitive eating in a section dedicated to his past victories.
As the competitive eating landscape continues to evolve, fans and participants alike are left wondering about the future of the sport. ESPN’s broadcast of the 2024 contest made several references to Chestnut and the impact of his absence on the competition. Despite the ongoing drama, Chestnut remains active in the competitive eating scene, hosting livestreamed events for charity and engaging with his fans through social media.
The world of competitive eating is experiencing a period of transition and change, with new champions like Patrick Bertoletti and Miki Sudo rising to the top. While the relationship between Joey Chestnut and MLE may be strained, the legacy of the “Warren Buffett of the buffet” continues to loom large over the competitive eating world. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this saga, one thing is certain – the thrill of watching these eating titans battle it out on the grand stage will always be a spectacle to behold.