Why was Joey Chestnut banned from Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest?

The 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest didn't feel right without Joey Chestnut. Patrick Bertoletti won that Fourth of July event by eating 58 hot dogs and buns, an impressive feat for the majority of competitive eaters but a couple notches below Chestnut's peak.

Chestnut, a 17-time Hot Dog Eating Contest champion, was unable to participate in 2024 because of a ban from Major League Eating. The beef started when Chestnut signed a sponsorship deal with Impossible Foods, the plant-based meat brand. MLE prohibits its competitors from partnering with rival brands, leading to a dispute that couldn't be resolved in time for Chestnut to make the 2024 event.

MLE and Chestnut were able to set aside their differences for Chestnut to compete in 2025, however. Chestnut made a valiant return to Coney Island, devouring 70 1/2 hot dogs and buns in a Mustard Belt-winning effort last year.

Chestnut is back to defend his title in 2026.

How much does Joey Chestnut make?

Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest winners earn $10,000, and Chestnut has said his deal with MLE is far more lucrative than the prize money he earns, according to USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why was Joey Chestnut banned from Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest?

Reporting by Wajih AlBaroudi, For The Win / For The Win

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published July 4, 2026 at 11:19 AM.