Analysis tracks age milestones in UFC's three lightest divisions since 2017

A comprehensive timeline documents the evolving longevity of fighters in UFC's flyweight, bantamweight, and featherweight divisions over the past decade. Sara McMann became the first fighter in these divisions to win three consecutive fights after turning 35 in February 2017, while Lauren Murphy extended that record to five consecutive wins in June 2021. Amanda Nunes became the first fighter in any lightweight division to win a title after 35 in June 2023, followed by Raquel Pennington as the first to do so against a younger opponent in January 2024. Alexander Volkanovski made history as the first male fighter in these divisions to win a title after 35 in April 2025 and later became the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. The timeline shows increasing competitiveness of older fighters, with recent additions including Aljamain Sterling's five-fight streak after 35 and Raoni Barcelos matching that achievement in April 2026.