The annual competition is returning to its Coney Island location in New York for yet another year, where competitors stuff their faces with dozens of hot dogs and buns in a 10-minute span.
Joey “Jaws” Chestnut is seeking his 15th Mustard Belt. He won again in 2021 a year after setting a new record in the 2020 contest by eating 74 hot dogs, a full 33 more than the next best competitor. Miki Sudo had won the women’s division six straight years, but didn’t compete in 2021 after breaking the women’s division record in 2020. She’ll return to the stage Monday.
Chestnut has raised his Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest best in each of the last six years and has his eyes — and stomach — set on downing 77 all-beef franks at this year’s event.
MORE: What happens to Joey Chestnut’s body after the Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest records
Here’s a look at the hog dog eating records in both the men’s and women’s divisions.
Men’s Division
*Chestnut’s 2016 record was set at the Giant National Capital BBQ Battle just nine days before the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest
Women’s Division
How many hot dogs did Joey Chestnut eat in 2021?
Joey Chestnut ate 76 hot dogs at the 2021 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, breaking the previous record of 75 set by him the year before.
Chestnut has eaten 70 or more hot dogs in 10 minutes in each of the last five years, and he’ll be looking to get to 77 for the first time Monday.
MORE: Joey Chestnut net worth, career earnings
What is the prize for winning Nathan’s hot dog contest?
First place in both the men’s and women’s division receive a $10,000 prize. A remaining $20,000 purse is divided among the runners-up in both divisions.
While the money is great, the real prestige comes in the awarding of the championship belts. The winner of the men’s division receives a legendary mustard-colored, WWE-style belt, while the women’s champion receives a Pepto-Bismol-colored and sponsored pink belt.
