Monday, competitive eaters from all over the world will vie for the coveted "Mustard Belt" at the annual 4th of July Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, including an upstart challenger from the Front Range.

Colorado native Josh Miller is currently ranked 21st in the world by Major League Eating, formerly known as the International Federation of Competitive Eating, which sanctions the event.

A relative newcomer, Miller burst on the scene last year, devouring 40 twinkies to claim fifth place in the 2015 World Twinkie Eating Championship. He then consumed 42 tamales to place sixth in the Western Days Festival World Tamale Eating Championship.

Miller is hoping to dethrone the defending champion Matt "The Megatoad" Stonie, who ate 62 hot dogs to upset former 8-time Mustard Belt holder Joey Chestnut last year.

The 2016 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest will be televised on ESPN, with coverage beginning at 1 p.m.

 

 

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