- Bovada lists Joey Chestnut as the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest betting favorite for 2025 (-2500 odds) after he announced he will be competing this year.
CONEY ISLAND, N.Y. – Competitive eating legend Joey Chestnut has confirmed he will return to the 2025 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4. The annual Independence Day event, held at Coney Island in New York, is one of the most iconic eating competitions in the world.
I’m thrilled to be returning to the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest. This event means the world to me. It’s a cherished tradition, a celebration of American culture, and a huge part of my life. (1/3)
— Joey Chestnut (@joeyjaws) June 16, 2025
Chestnut, 41, is a 16-time champion and holds the world record for most hot dogs eaten at the competition. Despite missing the spotlight last year due to a reported dispute with event organizers, his return brings clarity and excitement to those betting on Nathan’s Hot Dog Competition and oddsmakers alike.
Bovada has already released betting odds on Joey Chestnut to win the men’s winner. Listed as the overwhelming favorite at -2500 odds, bettors would need to risk $250 to win just $10 in profit if he wins again.
The rest of the field is considered long shots.
Patrick Bertoletti, last year’s winner (58 hot dogs eaten), is the second favorite at +950, followed by Geoffrey Esper at +1200. Nick Wehry (+2000), James Webb (+2500), and Derek Hendrickson (+5000) round out the list of challengers. A $100 bet on any of these competitors at legal sports betting sites could yield significant returns if they pull off the upset.
While the men’s competition takes place around 12:30 p.m ET, the preshow begins at 10 a.m. and the women’s competition is just after (11 a.m.).
Whether you’re a fan of competitive eating, a patriotic spectator, or someone looking for some entertainment betting action, Chestnut’s participation cements this year’s event as another must-watch showdown.
Joey Chestnut Facts, Figures, And Records
- Joey Chestnut was banned from participating in the 2024 contest due to a competing sponsorship with Impossible Foods.
- Chestnut lost the 2015 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest to Matt Stonie (61 vs 58).
- At the 2021 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, Chestnut ate 76 Nathan’s hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes, setting another event record.
- Last year, Chestnut ate 83 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes at the “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef”.
