Tim Janus, Competitive Eating Champion and 'Amazing Race' Competitor, Dies at 49
Known as 'Eater X,' Janus was a two-time runner-up at the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest and a Major League Eating Hall of Fame inductee.
Tim Janus, a renowned competitive eater who competed under the moniker 'Eater X' and appeared on 'The Amazing Race,' died on Sept. 16 at the age of 49 after a prolonged battle with cancer, Major League Eating announced.
Janus achieved a world ranking of No. 2 in competitive eating, trailing only Joey Chestnut. He notably partnered with Chestnut on the 30th season of 'The Amazing Race' in 2017, with the duo finishing in fifth place.
His competitive eating career, spanning from 2006 to 2018, saw him claim titles in various eating disciplines, including tiramisu, ramen, and nigiri sushi. He was also recognized for his burping abilities. Janus was a consistent participant in the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, securing second place in 2010 and third place in 2014, both times behind Chestnut.
Janus was inducted into the Major League Eating Hall of Fame. His signature performance style often included face paint, particularly a Viking-inspired mask. Reflecting on his career, Janus once stated, "I tell people that I learned a lot about life by eating hot dogs, and I mean it." He added, "If you care about something and work hard at it, it makes you better."
His former roommate and fellow competitive eater, Crazy Legs Conti, described Janus as someone who "followed his own passions and dreams without regard for the pressures or expectations of society." Conti added, "He was unique, brilliant, and beloved by his friends. He lived his life on his own terms."
