Joey Chestnut Wins 18th Hot Dog Title; Miki Sudo Claims 12th Women's Championship

Joey Chestnut once again dominated the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, defending his title with a remarkable performance on July 4, 2026. Chestnut devoured an astonishing 66 hot dogs and buns in the allotted 10 minutes, clinching his 18th career victory and reclaiming the coveted Mustard Belt. This win follows his absence in 2024 and his 2025 victory where he consumed 70.5 hot dogs. Chestnut holds the all-time record of 76 hot dogs, set in 2021.

"Eating here on the Fourth of July is a dream; it's electric. There's no place better on Earth," Chestnut exclaimed, reflecting the vibrant atmosphere of the competition held at the iconic Nathan's Famous flagship restaurant in Coney Island, Brooklyn. The event saw Patrick Bertoletti from Chicago take second place with 51 hot dogs.

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Eating here on the Fourth of July is a dream; it's electric. There's no place better on Earth.

In the women's competition, Miki Sudo achieved her 12th victory, earning the pink belt by eating 38 3/4 hot dogs and buns. "I'm just glad I could celebrate America 250 in this way," Sudo stated after her win. Michelle Lesco, the 2021 champion, finished second in the women's division with 22 hot dogs.

Thousands of spectators braved sweltering temperatures to witness the American tradition, with chants of Chestnut's name echoing as he reached the 50-dog mark. Competitors vied for a $10,000 cash prize and the championship belt. The event also featured international participants, including James Webb from Sydney, Australia, and Max Stanford from London, England, among the men, and Ynho Choi from Seoul, South Korea.

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I'm just glad I could celebrate America 250 in this way.