UFC lower weight divisions see growing success for fighters over 35

A detailed timeline chronicles the evolution of older fighters achieving success in UFC's three lightest divisions over the past decade. Key milestones include Sara McMann becoming the first fighter over 35 to earn a three-fight win streak in 2017, Lauren Murphy extending that to five wins in 2021, and Amanda Nunes becoming the first to win a title after 35 in 2023. Alexander Volkanovski became the first male fighter in lighter divisions to win a title after 35 in April 2025, while Valentina Shevchenko became the first 37-year-old champion in May 2025. Alexandre Pantoja followed Volkanovski as the second male champion over 35 in June 2025. The timeline continues through Volkanovski becoming the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026 and Raoni Barcelos joining a select group with a five-fight streak after 35 in April 2026. The pattern demonstrates increasing longevity and competitive success for older fighters in divisions traditionally dominated by younger athletes.