Joey Chestnut on 104.5 The Team: ‘I Don’t Want To Get Complacent’ [AUDIO]
World Champion Competitive Eater Joey Chestnut has won the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest the last eight years in a row but the California native sure doesn't talk like it.
"I don't want to get complacent or too full of myself, Chestnut told Armen and Levack on 104.5 The Team, on Thursday. "I know what it's going to take to win. That's why I've been able to maintain.
"I push hard every year. This is the biggest competition of the year for me. I don't think just because the other competitive eaters know what I'm capable of that they're going to lay down for me. I need to approach this like I do every year and go out there and dominate."
The pressure is on for Chestnut to not only keep the Mustard Belt in the States but also hit the elusive 70 hot dog mark, a goal that he's had throughout his career but has not yet been able to reach.
"I don't know [about 70]. There's been times where I thought my body was ready for it. This year, I think my body is ready for it. I'm hoping that everything goes well, that I find my rhythm.
"It looks like the weather is going to be perfect. Last year we had rain. A couple years ago we had hot weather. It looks like it's going to be 75 degrees. I'm just going to enjoy the 4th of July and find my rhythm.
At least there's no doubting the dedication that Chestnut has in bringing home the title for a 9th straight time this year.
"I'm trying. I'm going to be pushing with everything I have. I'll give blood if I have to. Hopefully it doesn't go that far."
The Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest airs on ESPN 2 at 12:00pm on Saturday, July 4th.
Armen and Levack are weekdays 3 to 7pm ET on 'Your Home for New York Sports', 104.5 The Team.