### Joey Chestnut's Comeback: The Return of the Hot Dog Eating Champion Joey Chestnut, a legendary figure in competitive eating, is making his much-anticipated return to Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest after a year-long absence due to a sponsorship dispute. Known as "Jaws," Chestnut has won the contest a record 16 times and is aiming for his 17th victory this year. His absence in 2024 was a significant event in the competitive eating community, as he was barred from participating due to a conflict with a rival brand, Impossible Foods, which he had partnered with. This year, he is back and is considered the favorite to reclaim his title at the iconic Coney Island event [https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/04/joey-chestnut-hotdog-eating-nathans-contest][https://www.nbcnews.com/now/video/joey-chestnut-returns-for-fourth-of-july-hot-dog-eating-contest-242692165575]. ### Structure of the Event and Key Participants 1. **Event Overview** - The Nathan's Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest is a long-standing tradition held annually in Coney Island, New York. - The women's competition starts at 11 a.m., followed by the men's event at 12:30 p.m. [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-exact-start-time-rules-and-everything-you-need-to-know/articleshow/122252490.cms]. 2. **Joey Chestnut's Background** - Chestnut is a 41-year-old competitive eater from Westfield, Indiana, who has dominated the contest for years. - His last win was in 2023, and he is looking to bounce back after missing the 2024 contest [https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-where-to-watch-stream-preview-as-joey-chestnut-makes-his-return]. 3. **Competitors** - Miki Sudo, a prominent competitor, is defending her title in the women's division, having won her 11th title by consuming 33 hot dogs this year [https://kstp.com/ap-top-news/miki-sudo-wins-11th-womens-title-in-annual-nathans-famous-hot-dog-eating-contest]. - Patrick Bertoletti, the 2024 winner, is also a key contender in the men's division, with odds suggesting he could pose a challenge to Chestnut [https://www.yardbarker.com/eating/articles/joey_chestnut_massive_favorite_to_eat_way_back_to_nathans_hot_dog_title/s1_17053_42412350]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Chestnut's Competitive Edge** - Chestnut is heavily favored to win, with betting odds placing him at -2500, making him a significant favorite over Bertoletti, who is at +1600 [https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-odds-predictions-expert-reveals-picks-bets-for-joey-chestnuts-return]. - **Historical Performance** - Chestnut has previously set records, including consuming 76 hot dogs in 2021, showcasing his extraordinary capacity and competitive prowess [https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-start-time-where-to-watch-preview-as-joey-chestnut-makes-his-return]. ### Conclusion: Anticipation for the Contest In summary, **Joey Chestnut's return to the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is highly anticipated**, especially after his absence last year due to a sponsorship conflict. The event promises to be thrilling, with Chestnut aiming for his 17th title against formidable competitors like Miki Sudo and Patrick Bertoletti. 1. **Event Timing**: The contest will take place on July 4, 2025, with the women's event at 11 a.m. and the men's at 12:30 p.m. [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-exact-start-time-rules-and-everything-you-need-to-know/articleshow/122252490.cms]. 2. **Competitor Dynamics**: Chestnut's history and betting odds position him as the favorite, while Sudo and Bertoletti are also key figures to watch [https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-where-to-watch-stream-preview-as-joey-chestnut-makes-his-return]. 3. **Cultural Significance**: This contest is not just a competition; it is a cultural event that draws significant attention each year, symbolizing American tradition on Independence Day [https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-07-04/nathans-hot-dog-eating-contest-2025-how-to-watch-july-fourth].