In a surprising turn of events, Patrick Bertoletti emerged victorious in this year’s Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, dethroning the long-reigning champion, Joey Chestnut. Bertoletti, a 39-year-old competitor from Illinois, devoured an impressive 58 hot dogs in a mere 10-minute time span, clinching the prestigious Mustard Yellow Belt in the men’s category. On the women’s side, Miki Sudo set a new record by consuming 51 hot dogs, solidifying her dominance in the competition.
The controversy surrounding Joey Chestnut’s departure from Major League Eating (MLE) added an extra layer of intrigue to this year’s hot dog eating contest. MLE announced its decision to part ways with Chestnut due to his alleged endorsement deal with a rival of Nathan’s, the official hot dog sponsor of the event. Chestnut, also known as “Jaws,” expressed his disappointment in a statement, claiming that he was blindsided by the banishment after nearly two decades of participation.
With Chestnut out of the picture, the competition was deemed more wide open than in previous years. Despite the fallout with MLE, Chestnut remains a revered figure in the world of competitive eating, holding records in 55 categories ranging from eggs to apple pies. Nathan’s website continues to praise Chestnut, highlighting his legacy as a dominant force in the contest.
As the dust settles from this year’s hot dog eating contest, the spotlight shifts to rising stars like Patrick Bertoletti and Miki Sudo. Their impressive performances signal a new era in competitive eating, one marked by fierce competition and unexpected outcomes. While Chestnut’s absence may have left a void in the competition, the door remains open for his potential return under different circumstances.
The 2024 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest showcased the emergence of new champions and the end of an era with Joey Chestnut’s departure. Patrick Bertoletti’s victory and the controversy surrounding Chestnut’s exit have set the stage for a new chapter in the world of competitive eating. As fans look ahead to future competitions, they can expect to see a fresh wave of talent vying for the top spot in the culinary world of competitive eating.