A detailed historical analysis tracks the increasing longevity and success of fighters aged 35 and older in UFC's three lightest divisions since 2017. Key milestones include Sara McMann becoming the first to achieve a three-fight win streak after 35 in February 2017, and Lauren Murphy extending that to five wins in June 2021. Amanda Nunes became the first to win a title after 35 in June 2023, followed by Raquel Pennington. In men's competition, Alexander Volkanovski broke through in April 2025, becoming the first male to win a lightweight division title after 35, and later became the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. Valentina Shevchenko set records as the first 36 and 37-year-old female champion in May 2025. Most recently, Raoni Barcelos joined Aymann Zahabi as only the second male to achieve a five-fight win streak after turning 35.
