 It's to 39,308. I'm Michael Kastner. The annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on the 4th of July is taking place today in New York City, but a familiar face will not be taking part. Scott Pringle in New York. Joey Chestnut has dominated this event, winning 16 times, but Major League Eating President George Shea says there was an endorsement dispute, so Chestnut was banned from the event.