Timeline shows increasing longevity in UFC's three lightest divisions over decade

A detailed timeline traces the increasing longevity of fighters in UFC's lightest divisions (flyweight, bantamweight, featherweight) from 2017 to 2026. Sarah McMann became the first fighter in these divisions to achieve a three-fight win streak after turning 35 in February 2017. Lauren Murphy extended this to five wins in June 2021. Amanda Nunes became the first in light divisions to win a title after 35 in June 2023, followed by Raquel Pennington in January 2024. Alexander Volkanovski became the first male fighter to win a light division title after 35 in April 2025, and later became the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. Valentina Shevchenko set records as both the first 36-year-old and 37-year-old champion. Alexandre Pantoja became the second male post-35 champion in June 2025. Aiemann Zahabi became the first male to achieve a five-fight streak after 35 in October 2025, with Raoni Barcelos following in April 2026.