Joey Chestnut, the undisputed king of competitive eating, has a life that often sparks curiosity beyond his record-breaking performances. Fans around the world admire his incredible ability to devour dozens of hot dogs in minutes, but many also wonder about his personal life, particularly his marital status. The question of a “Joey Chestnut wife” is a common one, and the answer is more complex than a simple yes or no.
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Is Joey Chestnut Married?
Despite the widespread interest in his romantic life, Joey Chestnut is not married and has never been. As of 2025, the 41-year-old champion remains single, dedicating most of his time and energy to his demanding career in competitive eating.
His focus remains squarely on maintaining his top-tier status in the sport, which requires a rigorous training and travel schedule that leaves little room for a committed relationship.
Who Is Neslie Ricasa?
While there is no Joey Chestnut wife, there was a time when he was close to tying the knot. His most significant public relationship was with Neslie Ricasa, a fellow competitive eater who shared his passion for the sport.
Ricasa, a Filipino-American with a degree in accounting from San Jose State University, wasn’t just a supportive partner; she was a competitor in her own right. She notably consumed 10 hot dogs at the 2013 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and once ate 59 dumplings in a single competition.
The Love Story That Captured Hearts
Joey and Neslie’s story began in 2011 when they met at a competitive eating event. Their shared interest created a unique bond, and they quickly became a well-known couple within the competitive eating community.
Their relationship blossomed during a period of incredible success for Chestnut, and Ricasa was often seen cheering him on from the sidelines. Their connection seemed to be a perfect match of personal and professional worlds.
The Proposal That Made Headlines
The couple’s romance reached a pinnacle on July 4, 2014. In a moment that captured the hearts of millions, Chestnut dropped to one knee and proposed to Ricasa on stage, just moments before the start of the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.
Ricasa joyfully accepted, and the romantic gesture made national headlines. It seemed like a fairy-tale beginning for the couple, with Chestnut going on to win his eighth consecutive title that day.
Why Did Joey Chestnut and Neslie Ricasa Break Up?
Unfortunately, the fairy tale did not have a happy ending. The couple was set to marry on May 9, 2015, but they called off their engagement just weeks before the wedding.
Chestnut later explained that his demanding travel schedule was the primary reason for the split. He admitted that he was “gone quite a bit” and described the decision as mutual. The pressures of his career ultimately made it difficult to sustain the relationship.
Where Is Neslie Ricasa Now?
After the breakup, Neslie Ricasa moved on from the world of competitive eating and public life. She has since found happiness and stability away from the spotlight.
As of 2025, Ricasa is married to Drew Ely, and the couple has two children. They reside in San Jose, California, where she has built a life focused on her family and career.
Joey Chestnut’s Life After the Breakup
For Joey Chestnut, the end of his engagement marked a period of renewed focus on his career. He has remained single and has continued to dominate the competitive eating circuit, solidifying his legacy as the greatest of all time.
Now 41, the 16-time Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest champion shows no signs of slowing down. His dedication to the sport remains as fierce as ever.
The Legacy of Their Relationship
The story of Joey Chestnut and Neslie Ricasa remains a memorable chapter in the world of competitive eating. Their public romance and subsequent breakup offered a rare glimpse into the personal sacrifices required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
While fans may still wonder about a “Joey Chestnut wife,” his journey highlights the immense dedication that has made him a legend. His story is a testament to the difficult choices that often accompany greatness.
