There was plenty of rain — but not enough to rain on the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest parade.
In a display of American perseverance, the show had to go on. Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo continued their dominance over fellow jaws and eaters everywhere, but it didn’t come without controversy and drama.
MORE: What happens inside an eater’s body after the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest?
Not even a weather delay can stop Joey Chestnut 😤
He downs 62 hot dogs to claim his 16th Mustard Belt 🏆 pic.twitter.com/PbcOkt1gVc
— ESPN (@espn) July 4, 2023
Sudo started the festivities on Coney Island by capturing her ninth belt by consuming 39-and-a-half hot dogs and buns — staving off challenger Mayoi Ebihara in a dramatic finish.
MIKI SUDO EATS 39.5 HOT DOGS TO CLAIM HER NINTH NATHAN’S FAMOUS HOT DOG CONTEST‼️ pic.twitter.com/17ttquQZRY
— ESPN (@espn) July 4, 2023
The women’s contest required an official plate count in a race that was initially too close to call. But long after Sudo, Ebihara and internet sensation Elizabeth “Glizzy Lizzy” Salgado left the stage — storms ruled the Coney Island sky.
Spectators, competitors and reporters who relished the chance to be on the corner of Surf and Stillwell were caught in a confusing twist as reports…
