Joey Chestnut’s mother, Alicia Chestnut, single-handedly raised him alongside his five other siblings after his father, Merlin Chestnut, abandoned them.
His younger brother noticed his high metabolism and encouraged him to participate in an eating contest, which turned out to be a life-changing moment for him.
After a dramatic absence in 2024 due to sponsorship conflicts, competitive eating legend Joey Chestnut is back at the 2025 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, ready to reclaim his throne.
The 16-time champion, who dominated the event for eight straight years from 2016 to 2023, is determined to break his world record and solidify his status as the most fantastic eater in history.
His dominance is unparalleled, and he devoured 62 hot dogs to secure his latest title in 2023. However, his most jaw-dropping feat remains the 83 hot dogs that he consumed against Takeru Kobayashi in September 2024.
The men’s competition promises high stakes and intense drama.
After last year’s controversy, his performance is under a global spotlight, with viewers eager to see if he can silence doubters with another historic showing.
Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest will be aired on July 4 at Coney Island, beginning with the men’s competition at noon ET.
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.
Joey Chestnut
Joey Chestnut’s Mother Fueled A Competitive Eating Legend
Joseph Christian Chestnut, the son of Alicia and Merlin Chestnut, was born on November 25, 1983, in Fulton County, Kentucky.
He grew up in a middle-class household as one of six siblings. Family challenges marked his early life as his father left the family when Joey was just two years old.
Alicia Chestnut took the responsibility of raising all six children single-handedly.
She worked hard to provide for the family, eventually relocating them to San Jose, California, where Joey attended high school.
Her resilience and dedication played a crucial role in shaping Joey’s upbringing.
Joey’s love for food began in childhood due to his mother’s cooking. He particularly enjoyed her pasta dishes, often eating large portions without gaining weight due to his naturally high metabolism.
Even as a college student at San Jose State University, where he studied civil engineering, Joey struggled financially and looked forward to returning home to enjoy his mother’s meals.
It was Joey’s brother who noticed his impressive eating abilities and encouraged him to enter a local eating contest in 2005. It changed his life, launching his legendary career in competitive eating.
Joey Chestnut Honors His Estranged Father’s Legacy
Joey Chestnut has made a name for himself at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest.
Yet, behind his success lies a complicated family history, particularly with his father, Merlin Chestnut, who left the family when Joey was just two years old.
Despite their estrangement, Joey has spoken about his family’s military legacy.
During a July 4th hot dog-eating contest at Fort Bliss, Texas, last year, he honored his father and grandfathers for their service.
His grandfather served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was present during the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Furthermore, Merlin followed in his father’s footsteps and served in the Vietnam War, as did Joey’s brother.
Joey has rarely spoken in detail about his father’s departure, but the Chestnut family’s military background remains a point of pride for them.
His father’s relentless drive and discipline propelled him to become one of the greatest competitive eaters of all time.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Joey Chestnut broke up with his longtime girlfriend, Neslie Ricasa, in early 2015, before their scheduled wedding date.
- He resides in Westfield, Indiana, whereas Neslie resides in San Jose with her husband, Drew Fly, and their two children.
- As of 2026, his net worth is estimated to be $3.5 million, and he earns approximately $ 500,000 annually.
