U.S. News
83 Hot Dogs in 10 Minutes Joey Chestnut Returns to Nathan’s July 4th Showdown After Shocking Ban
America’s most outrageous eating contest is back—with legends, records controversy, and mustard-soaked glory at stake on Coney Island.
It’s not truly Independence Day in America until someone devours dozens of hot dogs under 10 minutes on live television. The Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest is back this Fourth of July—and it’s more competitive, controversial, and calorie-packed than ever.
Joey Chestnut the undisputed king of competitive eating, returns to the iconic contest after a dramatic 2024 absence due to a sponsorship fallout. Chestnut, who holds the official world record of 76 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes (set in 2021), was banned last year for partnering with Impossible Foods. Now, he’s back—with mustard on his hands and revenge on his mind.

He’s not alone at the table. Patrick Bertoletti, the 2024 champion, aims to defend his title after seizing the spotlight during Chestnut’s absence. But with the Mustard Belt and a $10,000 grand prize up for grabs, 13 other top eaters are ready to bite into glory.
On the women’s side, Miki Sudo returns as the reigning queen. With ten total wins under her belt, she’s looking to claim her fourth straight victory and cement her dominance in the history books.
When and Where to Watch
- Women’s Competition:
Starts around 11:00 a.m. ET (coverage from 10:45 a.m.) - Men’s Competition:
Begins around 12:30 p.m. ET (coverage starts at noon)
Live on:
- ESPN2 (men’s contest live, women’s recap)
- ESPN3 (full stream, isolated views of Chestnut and Sudo)
- Replays on ESPN2: 6 p.m. & 9 p.m. ET
- Available on YouTube TV, Disney bundle, and ESPN+
Who’s Eating? Full Lineup of Competitors
Men’s Division:
- Joey Chestnut, 41 — Westfield, Indiana
- Patrick Bertoletti, 40 — Chicago, Illinois
- James Webb, 36 — Sydney, Australia
- And more from Brazil, the Czech Republic, Canada, and across the U.S.
Women’s Division:
- Miki Sudo, 39 — Tampa Florida
- Michelle Lesco, 41 — Tucson, Arizona
- Glizzy Lizzy Cardboard Shell,” and rising teen Isabeau Prettyman, 18 — a fresh face to watch.
Why Was Joey Chestnut Banned Last Year?
The drama began in 2024 when Chestnut inked a deal with Impossible Foods, makers of plant-based hot dogs. The move breached Nathan’s exclusivity deal, prompting Major League Eating (MLE) to issue a ban.
Joey and his managers have prioritized a new partnership over our longtime relationship,” MLE said in a fiery statement. Chestnut then challenged longtime rival Takeru Kobayashi in a Netflix-streamed contest—where he crushed 83 hot dogs, an unofficial world record.
After agreeing to exclusively endorse Nathan’s hot dogs, Chestnut was welcomed back. And the stage is set for a redemptive showdown.
Rules of the Gut-Busting Game
- 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs and buns as possible
- Water dunking allowed (max 5 seconds)
- No condiments, utensils, or vomiting (or you’re out)
- Every swallowed bun and dog counts—no shortcuts
Who’s Favored to Win?
According to CBS Sports, Chestnut is the overwhelming -2000 favorite, with Bertoletti trailing at +1200. On the women’s side, Sudo is so dominant that many sportsbooks won’t even offer odds.
Pro tip? Experts suggest betting on the under 45.5 hot dogs for Sudo if you’re looking for action.
U.S. News
Freedom 250 Celebration Marred by Heatwave as Multiple Fairgoers Are Hospitalized
freedom-250-celebration-heatwave-multiple-fairgoers-hospitalized-washington-2
What was intended to be a festive celebration of American heritage quickly turned into a public safety emergency as extreme heat swept through Washington, D.C., affecting visitors attending the Great American State Fair, a key attraction associated with President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative.
According to reports, several attendees required urgent medical treatment after being exposed to dangerously high temperatures during the event. Authorities and medical personnel responded to numerous heat-related incidents, while concerns over public safety ultimately led organizers to temporarily suspend activities.
The situation underscored the growing challenges major outdoor events face as extreme weather conditions become increasingly common across parts of the United States.
Celebrations Interrupted by Severe Heat
The Great American State Fair had been promoted as a centerpiece attraction within the broader Freedom 250 program, a series of events designed to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
ALSO READ : Sen. Elizabeth Warren Calls It a ‘Cesspool of Corruption’ — Here’s Why Senators Are Now Fighting Back Against the DOJ’s Live Nation Deal That Left Every Fan Betrayed…
Thousands of visitors gathered expecting entertainment, exhibits, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities. Instead, many found themselves battling oppressive temperatures that created dangerous conditions throughout the venue.
Witnesses described crowded areas with limited relief from the heat as temperatures climbed. Emergency responders reportedly treated multiple visitors experiencing symptoms consistent with heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.
As conditions worsened, event organizers made the decision to halt operations temporarily to prioritize attendee safety.
Medical Emergencies Raise Concerns
Reports indicate that several individuals required advanced medical attention following exposure to the extreme weather.
Health experts frequently warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can rapidly become dangerous, particularly for older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
The incidents prompted renewed discussion about heat preparedness at large public gatherings and the importance of hydration stations, shaded rest areas, and emergency response planning.
While summer events are common throughout the country, experts note that increasingly intense heatwaves can quickly transform ordinary outdoor activities into significant public health concerns.

Freedom 250 Under the Spotlight
The fair forms part of the broader Freedom 250 initiative, which seeks to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through events highlighting the nation’s history, culture, and achievements.
The program has received attention because of its association with Donald Trump and ongoing efforts to create large-scale commemorative events ahead of the historic milestone.
Supporters view Freedom 250 as an opportunity to celebrate American identity and heritage. Critics, meanwhile, have debated aspects of its organization and messaging. However, the heat-related emergency shifted attention away from politics and toward immediate concerns about public safety.
Washington’s Summer Weather Challenges
Extreme summer temperatures have become a recurring challenge in the U.S. capital.
Meteorologists have repeatedly warned residents and visitors about dangerous heat indexes during peak summer months. Combined with high humidity levels, conditions can feel significantly hotter than official temperature readings suggest.
For event organizers, such weather presents logistical difficulties ranging from crowd management and emergency medical services to ensuring adequate cooling resources for attendees.
The incident at the Great American State Fair highlights how weather preparedness has become an essential component of planning large public events.
Public Safety Remains the Priority
Following the disruption, organizers and local officials focused on monitoring conditions and evaluating when activities could safely resume.
Public health experts emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, dehydration, and fatigue. Visitors attending outdoor events during heatwaves are routinely advised to drink water frequently, seek shade when possible, and avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
As investigations and reviews continue, attention will likely focus on whether additional precautions could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
A Celebration Overshadowed by Nature
The Great American State Fair was expected to be remembered as a patriotic gathering tied to America’s historic anniversary celebrations. Instead, it has become a reminder of how quickly extreme weather can alter the course of major public events.
For many attendees, the focus shifted from celebration to safety as emergency crews worked to assist those affected by the intense heat.
As America continues preparations for its 250th anniversary commemorations, organizers across the country may now be paying even closer attention to one factor that no event planner can fully control: the weather.
U.S. News
Freedom 250 Celebration Hit by Health Scare… Multiple Attendees Hospitalized as Extreme Heat Disrupts Event
A major Washington celebration faced unexpected challenges after several fairgoers required medical attention amid a dangerous heatwave affecting the region.
What was intended to be a festive celebration of American heritage quickly turned into a public safety emergency as extreme heat swept through Washington, D.C., affecting visitors attending the Great American State Fair, a key attraction associated with President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative.
According to reports, several attendees required urgent medical treatment after being exposed to dangerously high temperatures during the event. Authorities and medical personnel responded to numerous heat-related incidents, while concerns over public safety ultimately led organizers to temporarily suspend activities.
The situation underscored the growing challenges major outdoor events face as extreme weather conditions become increasingly common across parts of the United States.
Celebrations Interrupted by Severe Heat
The Great American State Fair had been promoted as a centerpiece attraction within the broader Freedom 250 program, a series of events designed to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
ALSO READ : Sen. Elizabeth Warren Calls It a ‘Cesspool of Corruption’ — Here’s Why Senators Are Now Fighting Back Against the DOJ’s Live Nation Deal That Left Every Fan Betrayed…
Thousands of visitors gathered expecting entertainment, exhibits, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities. Instead, many found themselves battling oppressive temperatures that created dangerous conditions throughout the venue.
Witnesses described crowded areas with limited relief from the heat as temperatures climbed. Emergency responders reportedly treated multiple visitors experiencing symptoms consistent with heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.
As conditions worsened, event organizers made the decision to halt operations temporarily to prioritize attendee safety.
Medical Emergencies Raise Concerns
Reports indicate that several individuals required advanced medical attention following exposure to the extreme weather.
Health experts frequently warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can rapidly become dangerous, particularly for older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
The incidents prompted renewed discussion about heat preparedness at large public gatherings and the importance of hydration stations, shaded rest areas, and emergency response planning.
While summer events are common throughout the country, experts note that increasingly intense heatwaves can quickly transform ordinary outdoor activities into significant public health concerns.

Freedom 250 Under the Spotlight
The fair forms part of the broader Freedom 250 initiative, which seeks to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through events highlighting the nation’s history, culture, and achievements.
The program has received attention because of its association with Donald Trump and ongoing efforts to create large-scale commemorative events ahead of the historic milestone.
Supporters view Freedom 250 as an opportunity to celebrate American identity and heritage. Critics, meanwhile, have debated aspects of its organization and messaging. However, the heat-related emergency shifted attention away from politics and toward immediate concerns about public safety.
Washington’s Summer Weather Challenges
Extreme summer temperatures have become a recurring challenge in the U.S. capital.
Meteorologists have repeatedly warned residents and visitors about dangerous heat indexes during peak summer months. Combined with high humidity levels, conditions can feel significantly hotter than official temperature readings suggest.
For event organizers, such weather presents logistical difficulties ranging from crowd management and emergency medical services to ensuring adequate cooling resources for attendees.
The incident at the Great American State Fair highlights how weather preparedness has become an essential component of planning large public events.
Public Safety Remains the Priority
Following the disruption, organizers and local officials focused on monitoring conditions and evaluating when activities could safely resume.
Public health experts emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, dehydration, and fatigue. Visitors attending outdoor events during heatwaves are routinely advised to drink water frequently, seek shade when possible, and avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
As investigations and reviews continue, attention will likely focus on whether additional precautions could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
A Celebration Overshadowed by Nature
The Great American State Fair was expected to be remembered as a patriotic gathering tied to America’s historic anniversary celebrations. Instead, it has become a reminder of how quickly extreme weather can alter the course of major public events.
For many attendees, the focus shifted from celebration to safety as emergency crews worked to assist those affected by the intense heat.
As America continues preparations for its 250th anniversary commemorations, organizers across the country may now be paying even closer attention to one factor that no event planner can fully control: the weather.
U.S. News
Freedom 250 Celebration Takes a Disturbing Turn… Multiple Fairgoers Hospitalized as Washington Heatwave Sparks Emergency
A major event linked to President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 celebrations faced an unexpected crisis after extreme temperatures forced temporary closures and led to serious medical emergencies among attendees.
What was intended to be a festive celebration of American heritage quickly turned into a public safety emergency as extreme heat swept through Washington, D.C., affecting visitors attending the Great American State Fair, a key attraction associated with President Donald Trump’s Freedom 250 initiative.
According to reports, several attendees required urgent medical treatment after being exposed to dangerously high temperatures during the event. Authorities and medical personnel responded to numerous heat-related incidents, while concerns over public safety ultimately led organizers to temporarily suspend activities.
The situation underscored the growing challenges major outdoor events face as extreme weather conditions become increasingly common across parts of the United States.
Celebrations Interrupted by Severe Heat
The Great American State Fair had been promoted as a centerpiece attraction within the broader Freedom 250 program, a series of events designed to commemorate the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
ALSO READ : Sen. Elizabeth Warren Calls It a ‘Cesspool of Corruption’ — Here’s Why Senators Are Now Fighting Back Against the DOJ’s Live Nation Deal That Left Every Fan Betrayed…
Thousands of visitors gathered expecting entertainment, exhibits, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities. Instead, many found themselves battling oppressive temperatures that created dangerous conditions throughout the venue.
Witnesses described crowded areas with limited relief from the heat as temperatures climbed. Emergency responders reportedly treated multiple visitors experiencing symptoms consistent with heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.
As conditions worsened, event organizers made the decision to halt operations temporarily to prioritize attendee safety.
Medical Emergencies Raise Concerns
Reports indicate that several individuals required advanced medical attention following exposure to the extreme weather.
Health experts frequently warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can rapidly become dangerous, particularly for older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.
The incidents prompted renewed discussion about heat preparedness at large public gatherings and the importance of hydration stations, shaded rest areas, and emergency response planning.
While summer events are common throughout the country, experts note that increasingly intense heatwaves can quickly transform ordinary outdoor activities into significant public health concerns.

Freedom 250 Under the Spotlight
The fair forms part of the broader Freedom 250 initiative, which seeks to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary through events highlighting the nation’s history, culture, and achievements.
The program has received attention because of its association with Donald Trump and ongoing efforts to create large-scale commemorative events ahead of the historic milestone.
Supporters view Freedom 250 as an opportunity to celebrate American identity and heritage. Critics, meanwhile, have debated aspects of its organization and messaging. However, the heat-related emergency shifted attention away from politics and toward immediate concerns about public safety.
Washington’s Summer Weather Challenges
Extreme summer temperatures have become a recurring challenge in the U.S. capital.
Meteorologists have repeatedly warned residents and visitors about dangerous heat indexes during peak summer months. Combined with high humidity levels, conditions can feel significantly hotter than official temperature readings suggest.
For event organizers, such weather presents logistical difficulties ranging from crowd management and emergency medical services to ensuring adequate cooling resources for attendees.
The incident at the Great American State Fair highlights how weather preparedness has become an essential component of planning large public events.
Public Safety Remains the Priority
Following the disruption, organizers and local officials focused on monitoring conditions and evaluating when activities could safely resume.
Public health experts emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, dehydration, and fatigue. Visitors attending outdoor events during heatwaves are routinely advised to drink water frequently, seek shade when possible, and avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
As investigations and reviews continue, attention will likely focus on whether additional precautions could help prevent similar incidents in the future.
A Celebration Overshadowed by Nature
The Great American State Fair was expected to be remembered as a patriotic gathering tied to America’s historic anniversary celebrations. Instead, it has become a reminder of how quickly extreme weather can alter the course of major public events.
For many attendees, the focus shifted from celebration to safety as emergency crews worked to assist those affected by the intense heat.
As America continues preparations for its 250th anniversary commemorations, organizers across the country may now be paying even closer attention to one factor that no event planner can fully control: the weather.
