Netflix plans a wild hot dog eating contest in September

In a surprising move, Netflix has announced it will air a live hot dog eating contest titled "Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef" on September 2, 2024. This highly anticipated event pits the legendary hot dog eaters Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi against each other. Chestnut is a 16-time champion of Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog-Eating Contest and holds 55 world records. Kobayashi, a six-time champion of the same event from 2001 to 2006, last competed against Chestnut in 2009. Both are currently banned from the Nathan's Famous contest, adding drama to their Netflix showdown. Chestnut, now a partner with Impossible Foods, and Kobayashi will both consume all-beef hot dogs, despite branding controversies. The broadcast is set to be a major event, continuing Netflix's foray into live competitive entertainment.

Joey Chestnut was banned due to a controversial branding deal with Impossible Foods, while Takeru Kobayashi was banned in 2010 over a contract dispute.

Joey Chestnut and Takeru Kobayashi are icons in the world of competitive eating. Chestnut holds the record for most hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes (76) and has dominated the Nathan's contest since 2016. Kobayashi revolutionized the sport with techniques like dunking hot dog buns in water to eat faster. Their rivalry is well-documented, including in the "30 for 30" documentary available on Netflix, making this upcoming event a must-watch for fans.