Joey Chestnut's Relationship History: Is the Hot Dog Eating Champ Married?

Joey Chestnut, born on November 25, 1983, has dominated the competitive eating scene for over a decade. His personal life gained attention when he began dating Neslie Ricasa, a fellow competitive eater. They met in 2011 and, in 2014, Chestnut proposed to Ricasa on stage at the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. The wedding was planned for May 9, 2015, but the couple called it off weeks before the date.

Chestnut explained that his extensive travel schedule contributed to the breakup, stating it was a mutual decision. Ricasa has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and participated in the 2013 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, consuming 10 hot dogs (her personal best was 14). She also ate 59 dumplings at the 2013 Day-Lee Foods World Gyoza Eating Championship. In 2019, Ricasa married Drew Ely.

Chestnut's family life includes his parents, Merlin and Alicia Chestnut, and five siblings. His father left the family when Joey was young, and he was raised by his mother. Alicia passed away in 2023, a challenging time for Chestnut as he continued his competitive career.

No, Joey Chestnut is not married as of 2025.

He was engaged to Neslie Ricasa, a fellow competitive eater.

Chestnut cited his demanding travel schedule as the primary reason.

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