American dream

Chestnut will not only have Nikki in his corner Wednesday, but the rest of his family -- two older brothers, two older sisters, one younger brother and his parents -- cheering him on. The Chestnut clan is fully behind Joey, who is having the time of his life.

"It's not like a normal job," Chestnut says. "I go to festivals and fun places where people are happy to be there. It's such a great atmosphere. And even if I'm ranked 10th or 15th, I'd still do it because it's such a fun activity."

Chestnut, who lists hot dogs as his food of choice for contests, also enjoys ribs, chicken wings and asparagus. Though he isn't quite a part of the celebrity circuit just yet, he is quick to point out that he has met porn icon Ron Jeremy and some of his "friends." His heart, however is still with Nikki. The couple are still very much an item and she insists he is the same humble, down-to-earth guy she met at that San Jose State party two years ago with one added perk:

"If we go out to eat and I can't finish something, at least I know he'll finish it. So it's very nice to know that he'll take my last bite."

Who will take the last bite come Wednesday -- Kobayashi or Chestnut? Stay tuned.