Coney Island Hot Dog Champion Welcomes Joey Chestnut's Potential Return
Rumors swirl around the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest as reigning champion Patrick Bertoletti openly welcomes the potential return of Joey Chestnut, a formidable competitor who has dominated the event for years.
"Joey is the best hot dog eater ever," Bertoletti stated, reflecting on the competitive landscape. "To say I have a chance to win — I guess you can say it, but I don’t know. It’s difficult to beat him. He’s the best for a reason." This admission comes as Bertoletti prepares for the upcoming contest, where he will defend his title after winning last year by consuming 58 hot dogs, a feat overshadowed by Chestnut's personal best of 76.
Last year, Chestnut was notably absent from the competition due to a contract dispute that barred him from participating. Had he been present, Bertoletti acknowledges that the outcome could have been drastically different. "If he wasn’t there, I’d have a better shot to win, but I’d rather he’d be there than anything else," he remarked, emphasizing their long-standing camaraderie.
Negotiations between Chestnut and Major League Eating are reportedly underway, aiming to secure his return to Coney Island. While nothing is confirmed, the anticipation is palpable. Bertoletti dismissed any notions that this back-and-forth could be a publicity stunt, asserting, "I don’t think anyone was that good to do that." He believes Chestnut's presence would elevate the contest's profile significantly.
Despite the pressure of being a returning champion, Bertoletti finds solace in the idea of competing against Chestnut again. "I’m a realist," he said, acknowledging the challenge ahead. "But out of anyone else who has a chance to beat him?" His training regimen includes frequent hot dog "practices," where he shares videos of himself preparing for the contest by curling packs of Nathan's franks.
As he gears up for the event, Bertoletti aims not only to defend his title but also to set a new personal record by eating at least 60 hot dogs. This goal stands in stark contrast to Chestnut's record-breaking 83 franks consumed at a recent event. "It’s just not pretty. It’s not interesting either. Just a lot of hot dogs," he quipped about his training routine, which he finds enjoyable.
After competing at an alternative event last year, where he managed to eat 57 hot dogs in five minutes, Chestnut's return would undoubtedly reignite the competitive spirit of the Nathan's contest. Bertoletti is ready for whatever comes next, stating, "This past year has been awesome and I’m just trying to enjoy it. I don’t take myself too seriously." The excitement builds as fans await confirmation of Chestnut's participation and the ensuing showdown at Coney Island.
