Joey Chestnut will defend Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest title on July 4 while serving probation sentence
Chestnut to defend hot dog title while serving probation
Joey Chestnut will compete in the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4 while completing a 180-day probation sentence imposed after he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery. The sentence was handed down on April 20 in Hamilton County, Indiana, following an incident at a bar in March. Court records show Chestnut received permission to travel out of state for the event in New York City.
The charge arose from an altercation in which Chestnut was accused of slapping another man. According to an affidavit, the victim approached Chestnut, shook his hand, and was then struck on the left side of the face. Chestnut told authorities he had been drinking and did not recall the exchange.
Chestnut has won the contest 17 times, including the 2025 edition where he consumed 70.5 hot dogs and buns in ten minutes. He missed the 2024 contest after a sponsorship dispute but reached an agreement with organizers for this year’s event.
With travel approval secured, Chestnut is scheduled to attempt another victory at the annual Coney Island competition.
