Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest 2023: Favorites and Predictions

Grab your buns and get ready for a stomach-churning spectacle because the 51st Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is just around the corner! Scheduled to take place on July 4, 2023, this beloved Fourth of July tradition will bring together the world’s most ravenous competitors as they vie for the coveted title and the Mustard Belt.

But do you know who is the hot favorite to become the champion? Let’s sink our teeth into the sizzling details.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest: The Inception

Since its inception in the early 20th century, Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest has captivated audiences with its unique blend of athleticism and gastronomic prowess.

According to legend, the contest originated in 1916 when four immigrants settled an argument about patriotism by engaging in a hot dog-eating challenge at Nathan’s Famous stand on Coney Island. Over the years, this event has become synonymous with Independence Day, attracting thousands of fans to witness the gastronomic feats of competitors.

Nathan’s promoter, Morty Matz claims the event has been held every year since 1916 except in 1941 and 1971. However, many people have refuted these claims and the most widely accepted start date of the competition is July 4th, 1972.

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Joey Chestnut: The Gluttonous Glizzy Gladiator

In the realm of competitive eating, Joey Chestnut has reigned supreme. With an impressive track record and a staggering 15 Mustard Yellow Belts to his name, Chestnut is the undisputed favorite to win his 16th title.

Having devoured a mind-boggling 76 hot dogs and buns in 2021, he set a new world record, leaving spectators in awe. Despite a slightly lower performance in 2022 with 63 hot dogs consumed, Chestnut’s seven-year championship streak and his total of 501 hot dogs devoured make him a formidable force.

Chestnut’s biggest challenge will be Geoffrey Esper. His personal best stands at 50 hot dogs. So, if he hopes to challenge Chestnut’s reign, he’ll need to raise the bar by a staggering 140%.

Miki Sudo: The Unstoppable Force

On the women’s side, Miki Sudo has carved her name into hot dog-eating history. Having secured her eighth title in 2022 with 42 hot dogs and buns, she holds the women’s world record of 48.5 hot dogs devoured in 10 minutes.

Sudo’s dominance in the competition since 2014 is unparalleled, with nine victories in the last ten contests. With the hunger for her tenth title burning strong, Sudo is a force to be reckoned with.

Sudo’s only challenger is expected to be Michelle Lesco. She won the 2021 edition of the contest by eating 30.75 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes. That time she ended Sudo’s 7-year run and will be hoping to do the same this year.

As the 51st Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest approaches, anticipation and excitement are reaching a fever pitch. Will Joey “Jaws” Chestnut continue his reign of gastronomic glory and capture his 16th Mustard Belt?

Can Miki Sudo clinch her tenth title and solidify her legacy as one of the greatest female competitors in the contest’s history? Or will a dark horse challenger like Geoffrey Esper shock the world? The hot dogs are ready, and the stage is set for an epic showdown.

What are your predictions for this year’s Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest? Will the champions maintain their supremacy, or will a new contender emerge? Let us know in the comments below!