Joey Chestnut Wins 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in Triumphant Return
The iconic Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest took place on July 4, 2025, in Coney Island, New York, and saw the triumphant return of hot dog eating champion Joey Chestnut. After sitting out last year’s event, Chestnut reclaimed his title by consuming an impressive 70.5 hot dogs and buns within the allotted 10 minutes, emphatically showcasing his enduring prowess in competitive eating.
As Chestnut took the stage, the crowd erupted into chants of “Joey, Joey, Joey!,” signaling their enthusiasm for the beloved champion. Defending champion Patrick Bertoletti finished in second place with 46.5 hot dogs and buns, while James Webb followed closely behind, securing third place with 45.5.
A Memorable Comeback
At 41 years old, Chestnut, hailing from Westfield, Indiana, expressed both excitement and a hint of disappointment post-competition, saying, “I was excited, I love being here. Man, I wish I ate a couple more, I’m sorry guys, but I’ll be back next year.” He acknowledged that while he fell short of his own world record of 76 hot dogs, established in 2021, he remains determined to surpass it in future contests.
Last year, while not competing at Nathan’s, Chestnut set an unofficial record with 83 hot dogs at an independent event, although it did not receive sanctioning from Major League Eating.
Women’s Competition Highlights
On the women’s side, Miki Sudo dominated yet again, securing her 11th consecutive victory by consuming 33 hot dogs and buns. Her journey was a tight race initially, as competitors Michelle Lesco and Domenica Dee kept pace with her early on. Ultimately, Sudo managed to distance herself, as Lesco placed second with 22.75 hot dogs and buns, while Dee captured third with 21.5.
Sudo, 39, from Tampa, Florida, previously set the women’s world record last year with an astonishing 51 hot dogs and buns. After her win on Friday, she remarked, “The hot dogs were great, the weather’s beautiful, the crowd had me going. I’m thinking maybe the buns were more filling than usual.” She expressed gratitude for the support she received from fans.
Championship History
In a surprising turn of events last year, Chestnut was barred from the contest due to a partnership with Impossible Foods, leading Bertoletti to seize his first championship with a total of 58 hot dogs and buns.
Reflecting on the competition, Bertoletti stated, “I never thought I’d ever win Nathan’s, but it didn’t feel complete without Joey there.” He acknowledged Chestnut’s return made the event even more thrilling.
2025 Contest Overview
| Rank | Competitor | Hot Dogs & Buns (Count) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Joey Chestnut | 70.5 |
| 2 | Patrick Bertoletti | 46.5 |
| 3 | James Webb | 45.5 |
| 1 | Miki Sudo | 33.0 |
| 2 | Michelle Lesco | 22.75 |
| 3 | Domenica Dee | 21.5 |
The Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, a staple of America’s Fourth of July celebrations since 1916, continues to be a spirited event in the competitive eating scene. This year, 15 men and 13 women vied for the coveted Mustard Yellow Belt and the $10,000 cash prize. Competitors are tasked with consuming as many hot dogs and buns as possible, adhering to strict rules outlined by the contest, which forbids utensils and tasks participants with swallowing both ingredients for them to count.
