Independence Day is a big day for Americans, but July 4th is also an important day for the IFOCE, the International Federation of Competitive Eating. Today Nathan’s Famous held their 94th Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest. A contest that draws international news and media outlets, all watching to see who can down the most dogs in a 12-minute contest.
The biggest news of the day does not center on Joey Chestnut, the winner of the last 4 Mustard Yellow Belts, but instead on 6-time Champion Takero Kobayashi who refused to sign an IFOCE contract and therefore was barred from competing in the contest this year. After the contest ended Kobayashi jumped a barrier and tried to get on to the stage but was subsequently detained and arrested. He is being charged with resisting arrest, trespassing and obstructing governmental administration.
This is truly a sad day for the IFOCE when one of the biggest competitive eating “stars” attempts to make a demonstration at one of the biggest competitive eating contests in the world. Kobayashi’s name is known worldwide and even has shown up in the 2006 Allen & Ginters set. His 2006 A&G card #312 autograph sells for well over $100 when it can be found.
If you are interested in Joey Chestnut cards, his card #109 appears in the 2008 A&G set. He also has relics and I believe an autograph in the 2008 A&G set as well.
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