NEW YORK, NY – Competitive eating star Joey “Jaws” Chestnut faces a setback as he is disqualified from the upcoming Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest after securing a deal with a vegan hot dog brand, Impossible Foods. The Major League Eating (MLE) organization announced on Tuesday that Chestnut’s decision to represent a competitor led to his exclusion from the prestigious event, known for its Fourth of July tradition.

Having secured 16 wins in the Nathan’s contest and holding numerous eating records, Chestnut expressed disappointment over the ban, expressing his dedication to defending his title on social media. Despite MLE’s invitation for him to return sans vegan sponsorship, Chestnut remains uncertain of his participation in the event that draws over 40,000 spectators annually.

The controversy surrounding Chestnut’s disqualification raises questions about the intersection of sponsorship deals and competitive eating. The clash between traditional event norms and evolving dietary trends highlights the commercialization of competitive eating and the influence of sponsorships on athletes’ participation in major contests.

While Chestnut’s legacy as a dominant force in competitive eating remains uncontested, his current predicament underscores the complexities of balancing personal endorsements with established competition regulations. As the countdown to the Fourth of July approaches, fans are left wondering if the absence of the renowned eater will impact the overall dynamics of the iconic Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

As MLE and Nathan’s Famous navigate the aftermath of Chestnut’s disqualification, the future of competitive eating events hangs in the balance. Whether Chestnut will return to the Nathan’s stage without vegan affiliations or explore new avenues in his eating career remains uncertain, leaving fans and organizers alike in suspense leading up to the historic Fourth of July event.