Joey Chestnut receives 180-day probation for bar battery plea
Joey Chestnut was sentenced to 180 days of probation after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor battery charge. Court records show the 17-time Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest champion slapped a man at Joe's Grill in Hamilton County, Indiana, around 2 a.m. on March 21.
The victim recognized Chestnut and exchanged a handshake before the incident occurred. An affidavit states Chestnut pulled the man forward and struck him with an open hand on the left side of his face, causing pain. The slap was described as nonconsensual and resulted in bodily injury.
Chestnut, who admitted he was drunk and did not recall the events, took responsibility for the incident. He filed petitions to travel for the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4 in Brooklyn, New York, and received approval to compete while on probation.
The incident marks a contrast to Chestnut's competitive record, where he has won 17 of his last 19 appearances at the annual event. He will attempt an 18th title later this year under the terms of his sentence.
