Analysis shows increasing fighter longevity in UFC's three lightest divisions

A comprehensive analysis tracks milestones showing how fighters over 35 have increasingly succeeded in UFC's lightest divisions since 2017. Sara McMann became the first fighter in these divisions to achieve a three-fight win streak after turning 35 in February 2017, followed by Lauren Murphy's five-fight streak in June 2021. Amanda Nunes became the first to win a title after 35 in June 2023. In 2025-2026, Alexander Volkanovski became the first male fighter to win a title after 35 in these divisions, while Valentina Shevchenko became the first 37-year-old champion. Most recently in April 2026, Raoni Barcelos became the second male fighter after Ayman Zaabi to achieve a five-fight win streak after turning 35. The analysis demonstrates a clear trend of extended competitive longevity in lighter weight classes.