Return of the Champions
Fifteen years since their last face-off, Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi are again ready to tackle a legendary hot dog eating contest. The munching marathon, set to stream live on Netflix on Labor Day, has been eagerly anticipated by fans globally. This was made public last Wednesday, the day following Chestnut’s expulsion from Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4th.
A Remarkable Rivalry Resurfaces
Both Chestnut, 40, and Kobayashi, 46, have been powerhouses in the realm of competitive eating, conquering opponents with their unmatched appetite in the 21st century. Being consistent performers, both together have racked up an impressive 22 victories at the Independence Day contest.
In a recent press release, Chestnut acknowledged Kobayashi as his “fiercest rival”. He expressed excitement over the event saying, “I can’t wait for our massive showdown live on Netflix! It’s time to give the people what they want!”
Reminiscing the Thrilling Feast of 2009
Recalling their last duel in 2009 on Coney Island, Chestnut devoured an astonishing 68 hot dogs in just ten minutes where Kobayashi competed fiercely finishing as the runner-up with a count of 64.
Following the 2009 contest, Kobayashi was sidelined by Major League Eating after refusing to sign an exclusive endorsement deal. Last month, Kobayashi even declared his retirement from competitive eating on a Netflix show saying, “I no longer feel hunger.” But plans have evidently changed.
Kobayashi’s Comeback
The famed eating champion switched gears in recent weeks stating, “Retiring for me will only happen after I take him down one last time.” He further added, “Competing against Joey live on Netflix means fans all over the world can watch me knock him out.”
Chestnut’s Status as the Top Dog
Chestnut has been the force to reckon with in the competitive eating arena, particularly on Coney Island, since 2007. Winner of 16 out of the last 17 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contests, Chestnut has consistently demonstrated his prowess.
However, before Chestnut clinched the title of Commander-in-Chow, Kobayashi reigned supreme, winning the contest consecutively from 2001 to 2006.
Watch the Face-Off Live
The contest, titled “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef” will be broadcasted on Netflix on September 2. Despite Chestnut’s reported affiliation with plant-based food brand Impossible Foods, fans can expect the competition to feature classic beef hot dogs.
In the world of competitive eating, this showdown has been long awaited. Now with the platform of Netflix, fans worldwide can witness these eating legends go dog-for-dog, bite-by-bite. After years of anticipation, who will be the top dog this time, Chestnut or Kobayashi? Only time will tell.