Joey Chestnut, the champion of the famous Nathan’s hot dog eating contest, won’t participate this year because of a deal with a competing brand. But Netflix quickly announced a new contest featuring Chestnut and his biggest rival, Takeru Kobayashi.
The live Netflix special, called “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef,” will be held on September 2. The two will eat beef hot dogs, likely because Chestnut’s new deal is rumored to be with Impossible Foods, a company that makes plant-based hot dogs.
The group that runs the Nathan’s contest said it was Chestnut’s choice not to participate this year due to his new deal. But Chestnut disagreed, saying Nathan’s made the decision, which would disappoint fans. He hinted that people would see him eat again soon.
Impossible Foods hasn’t confirmed working with Chestnut but said they support him competing anywhere and that “meat eaters shouldn’t have to be exclusive to just one wiener.”
The head of the Nathan’s contest said Netflix is trying to copy their event, adding, “Imitation is the best form of flattery.”
New York City’s mayor joked on social media that Nathan’s should “stop being such weenies” and let Chestnut compete, saying, “Let’s find a way to squash this beef!”
Chestnut said he’s excited to bring the rivalry to Netflix, noting that competing against Kobayashi made him much better.
Kobayashi, who hasn’t faced Chestnut since 2009, said he won’t retire until he beats him one last time.
This contest is part of Netflix’s recent move into live TV, especially sports. They’ll also show NFL games on Christmas and WWE’s “Raw” in 2025.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.