Here’s some news that has surprised Lane Kiffin: the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest, a staple of American summer celebrations, faces a dramatic shake-up this year. Fans — and even college football coaches — are in disbelief because Joey Chestnut, the legendary 16-time champion, has been banned from competing.

Chestnut, who himself announced the ban on social media, apparently violated a rule issued by Nathan’s regarding sponsorships. To blame is his partnership with Impossible Foods, a plant-based hot dog brand. He clarified: “I do not have a contract with MLE or Nathan’s and they are looking to change the rules from past years as it relates to other partners I can work with.  This is apparently the basis on which I’m being banned, and it doesn’t impact the July 4th contest.” 

Upon hearing the news, the Ole Miss Rebels head coach expressed his outrage with a simple but powerful message on his IG story: “Nooooooo !!!” followed by a goat emoji for Joey Chestnut. He further showed solidarity by reposting Chestnut’s official statement and adding the caption “Free@joychestnut.”

Nathan’s has a longstanding rule of not allowing competitors to represent rival brands. The decision to ban Chestnut has sparked a debate, with many fans and supporters, like Coach Kiffin, believing it’s unfair to penalize the champion for an outside partnership.

While the debate about Joey Chestnut’s ban is still strong, the Ole Miss team seems behind him. Coach Kiffin supports Chestnut, and maybe it’s because of their mutual respect.

Grove Bowl heats up with Joey Chestnut and Lane Kiffin

The Ole Miss Rebels, who showcase their spring practices at the Grove Bowl Game, were split into two teams by the head coach. The red and blue teams took part in a series of challenges, including 7-on-7 drills, tug-of-war, and even a hot dog-eating competition.

And who better to judge the hot dog challenge than Joey Chestnut, the legendary champion? Interestingly, Kiffin directly messaged Chestnut on social media, inviting him to participate. “I saw a message request and was like, ‘Who is this guy?’….Oh my gosh, Lane Kiffin,” Chestnut recalled the surprising moment to the audience.

The mutual respect was clear. Before introducing Chestnut’s arrival to the stadium, Kiffin declared, “When you’re down, you call in the GOAT!” After Chestnut’s entry, the Vaught-Hemingway Stadium soon buzzed with fiery competition as the red and blue teams battled it out, with the red squad ultimately taking home the win 56-43. Despite the friendly rivalry, the camaraderie between Kiffin and Chestnut shone through, adding fun to the Grove Bowl festivities.