Takeru Kobayashi Defends Taco Eating World Record This Month in Redondo Beach

Looks like Takeru Kobayashi wants back in the ring. Last year, the former world hotdog eating champion managed to take down the title for most tacos eaten in a 10 minute span — that’s 130 for anyone who doesn’t feel like thumbing through the Guinness books — but hopes to best his own number later this month in Redondo Beach. He may have extra motivation this time around, too, considering last year's event was apparently mired in a 'messy' controversy.

The (apparently) 5th annual taco eating contest is going down at Chronic Tacos on Pacific Coast Highway as part of a collaboration part with hot sauce maker Gringo Bandito. Slated for October 24, the event will bring a mix of live music, on-site vendors, and, yes, lots of taco eating.

There are three categories: amateur, celebrity (as decided by the owner of this particular Chronic Tacos, Jason Acuña of Jackass’ Wee Man fame), and the professional tier — that’s where Kobayashi will compete. The rest of the lineup is still being filled out, but here’s to hoping San Jose native and longtime hot dog title holder/Kobayashi nemesis Joey Chestnut makes an appearance.

The potentially world taco eating record-breaking event is open to the public, and runs noon to 3 p.m. on October 24.