New York (CNN) -- For the first time in almost a decade, the Nathan's Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island will go on without its most recognizable face.
Takeru Kobayashi, who took home six consecutive titles from 2001 to 2006, will not be participating in the challenge this year because of a dispute with Major League Eating (MLE), the association's president, Richard Shea, said in a statement Monday. The organization describes itself on its website as "the world body that oversees all professional eating contests".
"Takeru Kobayashi is currently not scheduled to compete in the 2010 Nathan's Famous July Fourth Hot Dog Eating Contest," the statement said. "Major League Eating has sought to arrive at an agreement with Kobayashi, but contract negotiations have reached an impasse".
Hailing from Japan and weighing in at 160 pounds, Kobayashi, 31, rose to frank-feasting stardom in 2001 when he devoured 50 dogs, shattering the previously held record of 25 1/8.
But in 2007, having entered the challenge with a jaw injury, Kobayashi met his match in Joey Chestnut. Chestnut, of San Jose, California, downed 66 dogs to Kobayashi's 63 that year. Kobayshi has not won the competition since.
"We respect his place in the history of our sport," MLE Chairman George Shea told CNN. "Everyone will always remember him for ushering in the modern era of eating".
Chestnut, the reigning wiener warrior for the last three years, gobbled a record 68 hot dogs in 2009. Chestnut, who weighs 230 pounds, is currently ranked No. 1 in competitive eating by the MLE.
For a hot dog to be counted as finished, competitors must consume both the hot dog and the bun.
Currently ranked third, Kobyashi still holds world records for eating cow brains (17.7 lbs in 15 minutes), lobster rolls (41 in 15 minutes) and rice balls (20 lbs in 30 minutes).
Kobayashi could not be reached for comment.
