Volk becomes first 37-year-old male to win title in UFC's lighter divisions

Alexander Volkanovski has become the first 37-year-old male fighter in UFC history to win a championship belt in the lighter weight classes (featherweight, bantamweight, flyweight). This achievement represents a continuation of a trend toward increased longevity in lighter divisions that began with Sara McMann in 2017. Volkanovski previously became the first male fighter over 35 to win a title in these divisions in April 2025, and the first 36-year-old male in May 2025. His latest accomplishment in February 2026 further extends the upper age boundary for championship success in lighter weight classes. Other recent milestones include Alexandre Pantoja becoming the second male over 35 to win a title in June 2025, and Raoni Barcelos achieving a five-fight winning streak after age 35 in April 2026.