Plant-Based Endorsement Disqualifies Joey Chestnut from Nathan’s Hot Dog-Eating Contest

Joey “Jaws” Chestnut, a dominant figure in professional eating circles, has been sidelined from competing in the prestigious Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog-Eating Contest after securing an endorsement deal with plant-based company Impossible Foods. The lucrative deal, aimed at promoting Impossible Foods’ new plant-based hot dog, raised concerns within the competitive eating community.

The governing body for various competitive eating contests, including Nathan’s, Major League Eating, prohibits participants from representing rival brands, particularly when it comes to hot dog endorsements. Chestnut’s signing with Impossible Foods led to a contract dispute, ultimately resulting in his exclusion from the upcoming hot dog-eating competition.

Despite Impossible Foods’ attempt to maintain cordial relations with Chestnut, Nathan’s insistence on brand loyalty forced the reigning champion into a tough decision. Chestnut’s departure has set the stage for a potential upset in this year’s contest, where over 35,000 spectators are expected to witness the showdown at Coney Island.

Following the expiration of his previous contract with Nathan’s, negotiations for a new agreement came to an abrupt halt when Chestnut announced his allegiance to a «plant-based firm.» The abrupt nature of the deal caught both Nathan’s and fans by surprise, prompting a wave of disappointment throughout the competitive eating community.

While Impossible Foods refrained from commenting on the terms of the deal, Chestnut’s decision to align with the plant-based company has cost him the opportunity to defend his title at Nathan’s annual event. The absence of the hot dog-eating maestro has left a void that aspiring eaters will undoubtedly try to fill on the fourth of July.