Matt Bonanno

Standing every one of his 6-foot-4 inches, Matt Bonanno is a conspicuous figure at the MLE tables long before he eats. After competition, his name is mentioned along with phrases such as "who is that new kid?," and "what's with that big guy?," and "Wow." Bonanno—who showers the greater Rochester, NY, area with glory every time he competes—had a standout 2012. He won the US National Buffalo Wing Eating Contest's Amateur Round, before out-placing certain seasoned veterans the following day in the Pro Round. His greatest achievement to date remain his breakthrough fifth-place, end-of-the-table showing at Smoke's Poutinerie's World Poutine Eating Championships. When asked about his goals for the 2013 MLE season, Bonanno replied: "My goal for the 2013 season is to be in the top five." A bold aim, to be sure. But any man with his power—not to mention his ability to answer questions in full sentences—should be ignored.