One of the biggest sports media spectacles of the Fourth of July is the Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest. After missing the 2024 competition, Joey Chestnut returned in 2025 to reclaim his throne. Now, he is back in 2026 despite some off-the-field drama.

According to multiple reports, Chestnut, known as “Jaws,” will compete despite currently serving probation. The probation stems from a plea deal he accepted following a bar incident in March 2026.

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Chestnut entered the plea in April and is serving 180 days of probation. However, an Indiana judge granted him permission to travel out of state to compete in this year’s contest.

Chestnut set to defend his title once again

Major League Eating also confirmed earlier this year that the incident would not affect Chestnut’s eligibility. As a result, he remains set to compete in the annual event despite his probation.

Chestnut returns in 2026 looking to defend his title. He has won the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest 17 times, including last year’s victory, when he consumed an incredible 70.5 hot dogs in 10 minutes. The performance marked a triumphant return after his one-year absence.

Chestnut missed the 2024 contest after violating the terms of his competition agreement by partnering with a plant-based food company to sponsor his competitive eating career.

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After returning to the contest last year, Chestnut enters the 2026 competition as the overwhelming favorite to win yet another title.

The 2026 event marks Chestnut’s 19th appearance in the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. He has won every competition he has entered except for the 2015 contest, when Takeru “Tsunami” Kobayashi pulled off a remarkable career comeback.

Chestnut also holds the contest record after eating 76 hot dogs in 10 minutes in 2021. More recently, he set another competitive eating record by consuming nearly 16 pounds of bologna at the 2025 Ultimate Bologna Showdown.

The 2026 Nathan’s Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest begins at 12 p.m. ET on July 4, as the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of its founding.