Primanti Bros. offering Joey Chestnut sandwich eating challenge after hot dog contest ban

PITTSBURGH — After Major League Eating announced the reigning Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest champion was banned from this year’s competition, Primanti Brother’s stepped up to offer a new challenge.

The iconic Pittsburgh franchise is offering Joey Chestnut an opportunity to show off his skills by scarfing down Almost Famous sandwiches.

“Listen, Joey was put in an impossible position,” said Adam Golomb, Primanti Bros. CEO. “He’s got vegan beef with the hot dog world. No one wants that.”

Chestnut, 41, has won the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest 16 times in the last 17 years. He was banned for choosing to represent another hot dog brand.

>> Joey Chestnut banned from competing in Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest

“If Joey wants to celebrate our nation’s independence with a James Beard Award winning American Classic – well, we’d be honored,” said Golomb. “At this point, I think the most I’ve ever seen anyone eat in one sitting was five. And I feel like Joey’s got that beat.”

Primanti’s is also offering Chestnut a place on the mural at its original location in the Strip District.

“From sea to shining sea – it’s coleslaw, French fries and Provolone for me,” said Golomb. “That’s probably my worst quote ever – but I don’t know if there’s any better way to ring in America’s Independence than with 25 or 30 Primanti sandwiches.”

Chestnut owns the all-time record at the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, set in 2021 when he downed 76 hot dogs and buns.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

©2024 Cox Media Group