Nathans Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest: New Favorite Emerges with Chestnut Out

Geoffrey Esper Takes the Lead

With Joey Chestnut Out, Geoffrey Esper of Oxford, Mass. becomes the hot favorite in the upcoming Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Joey Chestnut, the legendary hot dog eating champion, will not be competing in this year's contest, leaving the field wide open for a new victor. Geoffrey Esper has emerged as the odds-on favorite, with current betting odds of -120 in the men's division.

Esper, who has a history of impressive performances in competitive eating events, is poised to make a strong run for the coveted mustard yellow mustard belt and the title of Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Champion.