Joseph Christian Chestnut (born November 25, 1983) is an American competitive eater ranked first worldwide by Major League Eating in 2024. On July 4, 2007, he won the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, defeating Takeru “Tsunami” Kobayashi with a record 66 hot dogs in 12 minutes.
He claimed eight consecutive titles (2007–2014) and set a record of 69 HDB in 2013. After losing in 2015, he regained the title in 2016 and won annually until 2023, setting a record of 76 HDB in 2021. Chestnut was banned in 2024 over a sponsorship dispute.
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Joey Chestnut Net Worth
Joey Chestnut has a net worth of $3 million, earning $250,000–$500,000 annually from prizes and sponsorships, including the $10,000 Nathan’s prize. His rival, Takeru Kobayashi, hasn’t competed at Nathan’s due to a contract dispute. Chestnut also sells condiments like mustard, hot sauce, and coney sauce under his name.
In June 2024, he signed a $1.2 million deal with Impossible Foods, averaging $400,000 annually. Contrary to reports, this sponsorship doesn’t ban him from Nathan’s contest but limits participation due to sponsorship conflicts.
Early Life
Joey Chestnut was born on in Fulton County, Kentucky. After high school, he attended San Jose State University, starting his eating competition journey in 2005. His graduation was delayed until 2012 due to frequent travel for food competitions. One of his first major victories was in an asparagus-eating contest, where he defeated top-ranked eater Rich LeFevre by consuming nearly 6.5 pounds of deep-fried asparagus in just 11.5 minutes.
Career
Joey Chestnu began competitive eating in 2005, placing third in his first Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and setting a world record by eating 32.5 grilled cheese sandwiches in 10 minutes. His rise included victories in the Waffle House Waffle and Krystal Square Off Hamburger Championships.
In 2007, he defeated Takeru Kobayashi at Nathan’s with 66 hot dogs and won the Wing Bowl XV with 182 wings. Chestnut set multiple records, including 76 hot dogs in 2021, and won eight consecutive Nathan’s titles (2007–2014). He also appeared on Man v. Food and The Amazing Race 30.
Personal life
In 2014, just before defending his Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest title, Joey Chestnut proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Neslie Ricasa. However, the couple ended their relationship in early 2015 before their planned wedding. Chestnut resides in Westfield, Indiana.
Why did Nathan’s ban Joey?
Joey Chestnut was banned from competing in the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest after signing an endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, creating a conflict with the event’s sponsorship agreements.
Conclusion
Joey Chestnut’s life and career showcase a unique blend of physical capability, discipline, and passion, making him a legend in the world of competitive eating.
FAQs about Joey Chestnut
- How did Joey Chestnut become a competitive eater? – His natural capacity and interest in competitive eating led him to the sport.
- What is Chestnut’s most famous eating record? – Eating 76 Nathan’s hot dogs and buns in ten minutes.
- Does Joey Chestnut have any other business ventures? – Yes, he has a line of condiments sold under his name.
- How does Chestnut train for eating competitions? – He follows a regimen of liquid cleanses and stretching exercises.
- What other foods has Chestnut set records for eating? – His records include a variety of foods, from funnel cake to gyoza and ice cream sandwiches.
