Brittainy Newsman/Associated PressEveryone knew Joey Chestnut would win the 2021 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. It's a contest he wins almost every year. On Sunday, the question was: Can Chestnut beat his all-time record for most consecutive years?Chestnut managed to do just that. He continues to find ways to increase the amount of hot dogs and buns he can eat during the 10-minute contest. He managed to put down 76 dogs this year, surpassing the 75 he set for 2020. On Sunday, no other competitor ate more that 50 dogs.Chestnut has won the mustard belt six times straight and in 14 of his 15 previous years. He has ate at least 70 hot dogs each year during his active winning streak and he doesn't seem to be slowing down. In fact, he set a new record in 3 of the last 4 years.ESPN Stats & Info noted that Chestnut has the most successful hot dog eating contest ever, with 10 wins. He has 14 wins but no one else has more than 7.The coronavirus pandemic meant that the hot dog contest took place in a closed location without fans. Fans flocked to Coney Island on Sunday to support Chestnut's historic performance.Chestnut stated that it felt good in an ESPN interview (h/t Associated Press). It made me feel good, even though I was uncomfortable.Although it is not clear how many calories Chestnut consumed in the 10-minute competition time, the Action Network suggests it was approximately 20,520.Chestnut won the big prize with another impressive performance. According to Edward Sutelan, Sporting News, the $10,000 total prize is distributed each year to the winner. The 37-year old leaves Brooklyn with a large check that he can deposit into his bank account.There was a first-time female winner in the women's contest. Miki Sudo, the seven-time defending champion, didn't compete because she was pregnant. In her absence, there was still an opportunity to win the mustard crown.Michelle Lesco was chosen, as she was the favourite going into the event. Michelle Lesco ate 30 hot dogs while the other female competitors ate only 24.However, the Fourth of July was once again won by Chestnut who performed a record-breaking performance. It is now a holiday tradition.He may not be done. Chestnut stated at Friday's weigh-in that "76 77 sounds achievable." Maybe he will set another record in 2022 if that is the case.Chestnut is the only person who can do it.
