Joey Chestnut

Joey Chestnut, known in the competitive eating world as Jaws, is a leading figure in professional eating competitions. Chestnut holds 55 world records across a variety of eating disciplines and is ranked first globally by Major League Eating. While studying engineering and construction management at San Jose University, Chestnut entered the competitive eating scene after participating in a lobster-eating contest. His early breakthrough came during the deep-fried asparagus eating championship, where he defeated Rich LeFevre by consuming 6.3 pounds of asparagus in 11.5 minutes. Chestnut eventually left his construction management career to focus on competitive eating full time.

Chestnut's career is closely associated with the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, considered the premier event in the sport. He first won the contest by defeating six-time champion Takeru Kobayashi, consuming 66 hot dogs and buns in 12 minutes. Chestnut went on to secure eight consecutive titles, setting a Nathan's record of 69 hot dogs and buns. After a brief loss to Matt Stonie, he reclaimed the championship by eating 70 hot dogs and buns. Chestnut is recognized for his record of 76 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes at Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, and has accumulated 18 titles at the event.

Beyond hot dogs, Chestnut's achievements span a wide range of foods, including chicken wings, funnel cake, Twinkies, Philly cheesesteaks, and waffles. He consumed 121 Twinkies in six minutes during the first contest for the snack and has set records in multiple other categories. ESPN featured Chestnut in a Sport Science segment, analyzing his competitive eating techniques. His preparation is systematic, involving strict dieting, exercise, and weekly practice contests leading up to major events.

Chestnut's influence extends beyond competitive eating events. "Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef" was a one-hour special live-streamed by Netflix, featuring a rematch between Chestnut and Kobayashi. Chestnut consumed 83 hot dogs and buns to Kobayashi's 66 in the 10-minute contest, earning a $100,000 prize. The event highlighted the evolution of competitive eating from a niche tradition to a widely viewed spectacle.

Over his career, Chestnut has contributed to the growth of professional eating as a viable career path. He earns an estimated $250,000 to $500,000 annually through competitions and sponsorships and has developed a line of condiments for hot dogs, brats, sausages, wings, and sandwiches. Chestnut also participates in charity events, food drives, and fundraisers to address hunger and food security. Through his efforts, Chestnut has played a significant role in shaping the landscape of competitive eating and sports entertainment.