Joey Chestnut's Ban from Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest: Mayor Adams Intervenes

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has stepped into the debate surrounding Joey Chestnut's ban from the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, calling on the organizers to reconsider their decision.

As the countdown to the annual Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest heats up, the competitive eating world is reeling from the controversial ban of eight-time champion Joey Chestnut. The ban stems from Chestnut's decision to endorse Impossible Foods, a rival of Nathan's which recently launched a vegan hot dog.

Chestnut's ban has ignited a firestorm of reactions, with many defending the legendary eater, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Adams, a known fan of competitive eating, took to social media to express his disappointment over the exclusion of Chestnut from this year's competition.

"Stop being such weenies!" Adams tweeted. "It would be 'impossible' to have this year's Nathan's Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest without Joey Chestnut."

Adams's plea reflects the sentiments of many competitive eating enthusiasts, who believe that the contest would be significantly diminished without the presence of its most iconic champion.

"Joey is the face of competitive eating," said famed food critic and eater Matt Stonie. "His absence from this year's Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest would be a huge loss for the sport."

Major League Eating (MLE), the organization that runs the contest, defended its decision to ban Chestnut, citing his breach of an exclusivity clause in his contract. Impossible Foods, however, has countered with its own statement, expressing support for Chestnut's right to pursue other endorsements.

"It's OK to experiment with a new dog," the company said. "Meat eaters shouldn't have to be exclusive to just one wiener."

Chestnut himself has expressed disappointment over the ban, acknowledging the importance of the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest to his career and legacy.

"To set the record straight, I do not have a contract with MLE or Nathan's," Chestnut said in a statement. "This is apparently the basis on which I'm being banned, and it doesn't impact the July 4th event."

Despite MLE's stance, Adams remains hopeful that a compromise can be reached that allows Chestnut to compete in the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. The mayor has even suggested a possible resolution that involves incorporating Impossible Foods into the event.

"Let's find a way to squash this beef and bring back the champ for another 4th of July at Coney Island!" Adams tweeted.

Competitive eating fans around the world are anxiously awaiting the outcome of this unfolding drama. With just weeks to go before the contest, the fate of Chestnut's participation remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, Chestnut has announced that he will be competing in a live-streamed hot dog eating contest on Labor Day, should he be unable to participate in the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest. The event is sure to draw a massive audience of fans eager to see the legendary eater showcase his skills.

The Mayor's intervention adds a new layer to the already heated debate surrounding Chestnut's ban. It remains to be seen whether Adams's influence and the groundswell of support for Chestnut will persuade MLE and Nathan's to reconsider their decision.