Geoffrey Esper is a well-known competitive eater from Oxford, Massachusetts, and is currently ranked No. 2 in the world by Major League Eating (MLE), just behind Joey Chestnut. At 50 years old, he balances his competitive eating career with his role as an electronics teacher at Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School in Charlton, Massachusetts. Esper has become a prominent figure in the competitive eating scene due to his remarkable achievements and versatility in various eating disciplines.
Throughout his career, Esper has set 19 MLE-sanctioned world records. Some of his notable records include consuming 9.75 pounds of SPAM in 8 minutes in 2021, 281 chicken wings in 12 minutes in 2019, and 83 10-inch pizza slices in 10 minutes in 2018. Other impressive feats include eating 36 bratwursts in 10 minutes and 39 Fortune Bay Indian Tacos in just 8 minutes. He also set a record by eating 11 corn dogs (each weighing 5.6 ounces) in 3 minutes in 2022. Despite his success in a variety of competitions, Esper has had less success at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. He finished in second place in both 2023 and 2024, eating 47.5 and 46.5 hot dogs, respectively, falling short of Chestnut’s dominant performances.
In the 2025 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, Esper was once again among the top contenders after Joey Chestnut’s return from a brief hiatus. Chestnut reclaimed the title, consuming 70.5 hot dogs in 10 minutes, while Esper’s performance was not highlighted in the available reports. Esper’s consistent presence in these events showcases his skill and determination to compete at the highest level.
Early Life and Education
Geoffrey Esper was born in 1975, making him 50 years old as of 2025. Growing up in Oxford, Massachusetts, he developed an interest in various activities, including sports and academics. His academic prowess led him to pursue higher education, culminating in a master’s degree in physics. This strong educational background laid the foundation for his analytical approach to competitive eating.
Career and Professional Life
While many know Esper for his competitive eating feats, he maintains a full-time career as an electronics teacher. At Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School, he imparts knowledge to students, preparing them for careers in electronics and related fields. His dual career showcases his versatility and commitment to both education and his passion for competitive eating.
Entry into Competitive Eating
Esper’s foray into competitive eating began with local challenges, where he quickly gained recognition for his impressive eating capacities. His breakthrough came in 2017 when he won the Hooters Wing-Eating Championship, consuming 281 wings in 12 minutes. This victory propelled him into the national spotlight, leading to invitations to more prestigious events. Over the years, he has participated in approximately 15 competitions annually, demonstrating his consistency and dedication to the sport.
Major Achievements and Records
Geoffrey Esper’s competitive eating career is marked by numerous records and accolades:
- Hooters Wing-Eating Champion: He won the Hooters Wing-Eating Championship in both 2017 and 2019, setting a record by consuming 281 wings in 12 minutes.
- Fortune Bay Indian Taco Champion: Esper holds the record for eating 39 Fortune Bay Indian Tacos in 8 minutes.
- Jack’s Donuts Donut Holes Champion: He set a record by consuming an impressive number of Jack’s Donuts Donut Holes in a specified time.
- Pizza Eating Record: Esper consumed 83 slices of 10-inch pizza in 10 minutes, showcasing his versatility across different food categories.
- Corn Dog Record: He set a record by eating 11 corn dogs (5.6 oz each) in 3 minutes.
- SPAM Eating Record: Esper consumed 9.75 pounds of SPAM in 8 minutes, setting a new benchmark in this category.
- Bratwurst Record: He ate 36 bratwursts in 10 minutes, demonstrating his capacity in meat-based competitions.
- Chicken Wing Record: Esper devoured 281 chicken wings in 12 minutes, a feat that earned him national recognition.
- Pomme Frites Record: He ate 2 pounds 9 ounces of Pomme Frites in 8 minutes, setting a new record in this category.
- Hot Dog Record: Esper consumed 76 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs and Buns in 10 minutes during a qualifier, showcasing his potential in the hot dog category.
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
Esper’s most publicized competitive eating endeavor is his participation in Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held annually on July 4th at Coney Island. Despite his consistent second-place finishes, he has never clinched the coveted Mustard Belt. In 2024, he consumed 53 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes, setting a personal best. However, he finished behind Patrick Bertoletti, who ate 58 hot dogs and buns. Joey Chestnut, the reigning champion, returned in 2025 after a one-year absence and secured his 17th title by consuming 70.5 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes. Esper’s performance in 2025 was not highlighted in the available reports.
Personal Life
Outside of competitive eating, Geoffrey Esper leads a private life. He is married and has children, though he maintains a level of privacy regarding his family. His dedication to both his family and his career reflects his balanced approach to life.
Net Worth
While specific figures are not publicly disclosed, competitive eaters like Esper can earn between $20,000 to $35,000 annually from prize money, depending on their performance in various contests. However, most competitive eaters, including Esper, do not rely solely on eating competitions for income. They often have other full-time jobs, as is the case with Esper’s teaching career.
Conclusion
Geoffrey Esper’s journey from a local enthusiast to a world-ranked competitive eater is a testament to his dedication, discipline, and passion for the sport. His numerous records and consistent performances have solidified his place in the competitive eating community. Despite not securing a Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest title, his achievements in other categories highlight his versatility and commitment to excellence. As he continues to compete and inspire, Geoffrey Esper remains a respected figure in the world of competitive eating.
FAQs
What is Geoffrey Esper’s most significant achievement in competitive eating?
Esper’s most notable achievement is his consistent second-place finishes at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, where he has demonstrated remarkable eating capacity and technique.
How many records does Geoffrey Esper hold?
Geoffrey Esper holds 19 Major League Eating-sanctioned world records across various food categories, showcasing his versatility and skill.
What is Geoffrey Esper’s profession outside of competitive eating?
Outside of competitive eating, Geoffrey Esper serves as an electronics teacher at Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School in Charlton, Massachusetts.
How many hot dogs has Geoffrey Esper eaten at Nathan’s contest?
In 2024, Geoffrey Esper consumed 53 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs and Buns in 10 minutes, setting a personal best.
Has Geoffrey Esper ever won Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest?
No, Geoffrey Esper has never won Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. He has consistently finished in second place.
What is Geoffrey Esper’s educational background?
Geoffrey Esper holds a master’s degree in physics, which complements his analytical approach to competitive eating.
How does Geoffrey Esper train for eating competitions?
Esper’s training regimen includes practicing with various foods, focusing on techniques to expand stomach capacity, and maintaining physical fitness to endure the demands of competitive eating.
What is Geoffrey Esper’s approach to competitive eating?
Esper approaches competitive eating with discipline, preparation, and a strategic mindset, treating it as both a sport and a passion.
Does Geoffrey Esper have any endorsements or sponsorships?
There is no public information indicating that Geoffrey Esper has major endorsements or sponsorships in the competitive eating industry.
