Tim Janus, a prominent figure in competitive eating known by his stage name Eater X, died on September 16 in Boston at the age of 49 after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer earlier in 2023, his sister Tess Mcnair confirmed.

Janus rose to prominence over a career that spanned from 2004 to 2016, distinguishing himself as one of the world’s top competitive eaters. He set records that still stand two decades later, consuming large quantities of diverse foods such as 4 pounds of tiramisu in six minutes, 10.5 pounds of ramen in eight minutes, 71 tamales in eight minutes, 7.7 pounds of boneless Buffalo wings in 12 minutes, and 141 pieces of nigiri in six minutes. Janus was well-known for his versatility across a wide range of dishes, from cannoli and marshmallow Peeps to the signature Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, where he regularly ranked among the top three competitors.

Standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 170 pounds, Janus defied stereotypes about competitive eaters, exhibiting a lean and athletic build. He approached the sport with a highly analytical mindset, training rigorously and developing specific strategies such as a stomach expansion regimen involving cottage cheese and water, alongside a disciplined running routine. He meticulously studied competitor footage and kept detailed notes to refine his techniques. For instance, he advised eating the cream first in tiramisu contests to minimize leftover weight on the plate, which judges use to determine results.

Janus’s involvement coincided with the sport's transition from a sideshow attraction to a more structured and regulated activity, marked by increased media coverage, sponsorships, and the establishment of the International Federation of Competitive Eating as the governing body. He embraced both the competitive and theatrical elements of the sport, becoming recognizable for his luchador-style face paint and masked persona. George Shea, co-operator of the federation, noted Janus’s dual awareness of the sport’s inherent absurdity alongside his competitive drive.

Originally from Farmington, Connecticut, Janus studied political science at Southern Methodist University. After college, he worked as a bartender and eventually moved to New York City, where he became a day trader before turning to competitive eating after discovering a St. Patrick’s Day eating contest in New York. Although he did not initially win, his dedication quickly earned him the rookie of the year title from the International Federation of Competitive Eating. Despite his prominence in the field, Janus never pursued competitive eating as a primary source of income, working various jobs like bartending and later making pizzas full time.

Following his retirement from competitive eating in 2016, Janus embarked on a career as a foreign service officer. He had to curtail a deployment in Mexico City due to his cancer diagnosis. Throughout his life, Janus was known for blending a scientific approach with a sense of humor and adventure, viewing the sport as more than just a spectacle or a means of financial gain. He is survived by his parents, a sister, and a stepmother.