WON'T BE THE SAME TMZSports.com
Joey Chestnut's absence from the Nathan's Hot Dog contest would have a major impact on whoever ends up winning the event this year ... so says 2023 runner-up Geoff Esper, who tells TMZ Sports the victory would be tainted if it's not over Jaws.
We caught up with the competitive eater -- and new favorite to win the Fourth of July event -- shortly after the news of Chestnut's status broke ... and while the 16-time mustard belt champion's omission helps his odds, he understands people wouldn't be nearly as impressed if Joey ain't there.