Former Chicago Bears defensive lineman William "The Refrigerator" Perry has earned a spot in the annual July 4 hot dog eating contest in New York's Coney Island.

Over the weekend, Perry earned a berth in the competition, sponsored by Nathan's Famous, by eating 12 franks in 12 minutes to qualify.

"Most of his colleagues are spending time doing other endeavors that are not in the sporting world," said Rich Shea, president of the International Federation of Competitive Eating, which sanctions the hot dog contest. "It has to be a joy for him to be back in the sports arena. After all, this is the Super Bowl of competitive eating."

Perry, known as much for his girth as his defensive prowess and occasional offensive appearances during goal-line situations on the field, has his work cut out for him. Two-time defending champion Takeru Kobayashi won last year's competition with a record 50-and-a-half hot dogs in 12 minutes, setting a world record.

Kobayashi weighs in at 130 pounds.

There will be 20 contestants -- 19 regional winners and one wild-card entry. The contest will be aired on ESPN at noon ET on July 4.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.