Joey Chestnut Breaks World Record at Netflix Hot Dog Eating Contest

Joey Chestnut demonstrated his unrivaled competitive eating skills by consuming a staggering 83 hot dogs in a recent showdown against his longtime rival, Takeru Kobayashi. This record-setting performance occurred during the Netflix special titled “Unfinished Beef,” which was broadcast live from the HyperX Arena in Las Vegas on Labor Day.

The event followed the familiar format of the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest traditionally held in Coney Island, New York. Each competitor had a strict timeframe of 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible. According to the event host, Rob Riggle, the production team prepared 300 hot dogs in anticipation of the competitive frenzy.

Participants in the competition faced specific restrictions, which prohibited them from dunking the hot dogs in water, separating the meat from the buns, or leaving behind excessive crumbs. Any violations, including regurgitation, could lead to penalties. While Kobayashi managed to eat 67 hot dogs, Chestnut surpassed expectations by consuming 83, thereby breaking his own previous record of 76 hot dogs set during the 2021 Nathan’s contest.

Following his impressive victory, Chestnut took to the stage to reflect on his performance. “I’ve been trying to hit 80 hot dogs for years. Without Kobayashi, I was never able to do it. He drives me. We weren’t always nice to each other, but I love what he can do. We push each other to be our best,” he shared.

In response, Kobayashi, communicating through an interpreter, expressed a mix of disappointment and acceptance. “I feel like I did everything I could,” he stated. This event marked a poignant moment for Kobayashi, who announced his retirement from competitive eating earlier this year in the Netflix documentary “Hack Your Health: Secrets of Your Gut.” In this documentary, he also revealed that he can no longer feel hunger, a significant change for a champion eater.

Kobayashi’s career in competitive eating began with great success as he held the Nathan’s title from 2001 to 2006. However, Chestnut would soon take the mantle, achieving an impressive 16 wins in 17 years. Interestingly, this year, Chestnut faced a unique challenge; he was banned from the Nathan’s contest due to a partnership with Impossible Foods, resulting in him having to forfeit the coveted “Mustard Belt” to competitor Patrick Bertoletti.

This recent clash in Las Vegas continued to fuel the legendary rivalry between Chestnut and Kobayashi, highlighting the dedication and perseverance required in the world of competitive eating. Fans were treated to a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship from both eaters as they pushed each other to reach new heights.

As for Netflix, following the excitement of “Unfinished Beef,” the platform has slated its next live event featuring boxing stars Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, set to take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.