In an electrifying showdown that reignited one of the fiercest rivalries in competitive eating, Joey Chestnut emerged victorious over Takeru Kobayashi in Netflix’s “Unfinished Beef” special.
Fox News reported that the epic battle saw Chestnut devouring an astonishing 83 hot dogs in just 10 minutes, shattering the world record and earning him a well-deserved $100,000 prize.
Chestnut’s monumental achievement was made even more significant by the presence of Kobayashi, his long-time rival. The two titans of the sport, known for their intense competition and mutual respect, last faced off in 2009, making this event a highly anticipated reunion that lived up to its billing.
Chestnut & Kobayashi: Friends and foes
Reflecting on his victory, Chestnut credited Kobayashi for pushing him to new heights. “I’ve been trying to hit 80 hot dogs for years, and without Kobayashi, I was never able to,” Chestnut said. “He drives me; we weren’t always nice to each other, but we push each other to be our best.”
The rivalry between Chestnut and Kobayashi is the stuff of legend. It began in 2007 when Chestnut dethroned Kobayashi at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, marking the start of a rivalry that has captivated fans worldwide. Chestnut’s win not only solidified his status as one of the greatest competitive eaters of all time but also extended his lead in their head-to-head record to 4-2.
Despite the controversy surrounding Chestnut’s ban from the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest earlier this year due to an endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, the competitive eating star has continued to dominate the scene. His performance at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he outpaced four competitors combined, showcased his unmatched skill and determination.
Kobayashi, who had previously announced his retirement from competitive eating, made a comeback for this special event. His decision to face off against Chestnut once again underscored the enduring appeal of their rivalry and the respect the two competitors have for each other.
Competitive eating: Criticized yet popular
As competitive eating continues to grow in popularity, with fans tuning in from countries like Canada, Germany, and Japan, it faces criticism from health experts and has even been banned in China. Nevertheless, the Chestnut-Kobayashi rivalry remains a testament to the sport’s ability to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of human performance.
With Chestnut’s latest victory, the question remains: Will this be the final chapter in this legendary rivalry, or will these two titans meet again to write another page in the annals of competitive eating history?