Nathan’s hot dog eating contest live: Joey Chestnut back to break record as Miki Sudo wins 11th belt

Chestnut is averaging about nine hot dogs per minute at the halfway mark.

Chestnut hit 38 hot dogs, with Bertoletti firmly in second place with 26.

Chestnut has established a solid lead over the rest of the competitors after three minutes, with 30 hot dogs down.

After two minutes of competition, Chestnut’s already at 20.

Bertoletti is right behind him with 16.

Chestnut has scarfed down 11 dogs.

The leaderboard is changing nearly every second.

The men’s contest is underway!

The contestants have 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs and buns as they can for the chance to win the coveted Mustard Belt.

Bertoletti is the reigning champion.

Chestnut is back after a one-year absence.

Cheers of “Joey” can be heard. Signs are on display saying “Joey Chestnut, I want to have your baby.”

The contest will begin in just moments.

During the introductions, a fun fact about each contestant flashes across the screen.

One male competitor has two master’s degrees in trumpet performance.

Another is a “doughnut specialist.”

Someone else holds the world record for Spray Cheese in a Can.

“It’s go time,” announcer Rich Shea said.

The men are taking their positions.

“The record’s always a goal, but I want to find the rhythm,” Chestnut said of chasing his world record of 76 hot dogs.

He then cackled when asked if his 2025 comeback feels like a Michael Jordan moment. He didn’t compete in 2024 due to a brand deal with a Nathan’s competitor.

Chestnut is seeking his 17th Nathan’s title.