Tim Janus, the world champion competitive eater known as "Eater X" who once ate 54 hot dogs in one sitting, has died aged 49 after a long battle with cancer, Major League Eating has confirmed.
Janus was one of the biggest names in the sport and at his peak was ranked as high as number two in the world, behind only fellow eating superstar Joey Chestnut.
Career and records
Major League Eating said Janus died on September 16, with his publicist and former roommate confirming the sad news. Janus had previously been planning to serve in the United States Foreign Service before his cancer diagnosis changed his path.
A larger-than-life figure on the competitive circuit, Janus competed from 2006 to 2016 and became known not only for his results but for his theatrical persona, turning up to events in a distinctive painted Viking mask. While hot dogs made him famous, Janus also racked up titles and records across a wide range of foods.
Among the feats attributed to him was a ramen record of 10.5 pounds in eight minutes, along with wins involving nigiri sushi, tamales, cannoli and tiramisu, TMZ reported. He also became a talking point beyond the sport in 2007 when he took part in a University of Pennsylvania medical study later published in The Journal of Roentgenology.
Television and beyond
X-rays reportedly showed his stomach could expand dramatically, helping scientists better understand the physiology of extreme competitive eating. He later retired, reportedly out of caution for his long-term health.
Away from eating contests, Janus lived an unconventional life. He graduated with a degree in political science, worked for a period as a Wall Street day trader, and spent time in Australia tracking crocodiles and snakes.
He also became a familiar face on American television, appearing on several shows including MTV's True Life, the game show Cash Cab and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. In 2009, he was a successful contestant on Millionaire, reportedly winning a total of $200,000 (£151,000) across appearances.
Janus later teamed up with Chestnut on The Amazing Race. In 2017 they joined forces for The Amazing Race 30, where they came in eighth place.
Final words
He told Food Republic in 2015: "I'd eat a roll of pennies if I thought I could set a world record, taste doesn't matter. I'd like to eat everything in the world at least once. I'd eat alien if we could find it. If we could raise dinosaurs, I'd sign up to eat those."
