Joey Chestnut took to social media Tuesday after it was reported he is banned from the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest by Major League Eating after representing another hot dog brand.

“I was gutted to learn from the media that after 19 years I’m banned from the Nathan’s July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest,” he posted on “X,” the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “I love competing in that event. I love celebrating America with my fans all over this great country on the 4th, and I have been training to defend my title.”

The New York Post reports that Chestnut, who has won the event every year since 2016, is out over a deal he made to represent a different wiener brand, Impossible Foods.

“To set the record straight, I do not have a contract with MLE or Nathans, and they are looking to change the rules from past years as it relates to other partners I can work with,” he continued. “This is apparently the basis on which I’m being banned, and it doesn’t impact the July 4th event.”

In July, Chestnut downed 62 franks and buns in 10 minutes. Chestnut, 40, first competed for the Nathan’s title in 2005 and hasn’t lost it since 2015. His best finish was in 2021 when he tallied 76 hot dogs.

“Sadly, this is the decision Nathan’s and Major League Eating are making, and it will deprive the great fans of the holiday’s usual joy and entertainment,” Chestnut ended. “To my fans, I love you and appreciate you. Rest assured that you’ll see me eat again soon!! STAY HUNGRY!”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.