Volkanovski becomes first 37-year-old male to win lightweight title in UFC history

A comprehensive timeline details the increasing longevity in UFC's three lowest weight divisions over the past decade. Key milestones include Sara McMann becoming the first fighter in these divisions to achieve a three-fight win streak after age 35 in February 2017, and Lauren Murphy extending this to five wins in June 2021. Amanda Nunes broke barriers by becoming the first fighter in all lightweight divisions to win a belt after 35 in June 2023. Alexander Volkanovski became the first male fighter in lightweight divisions to win a title after 35 in April 2025, and later the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. Valentina Shevchenko became the first 37-year-old overall in May 2025. The timeline also highlights achievements by Alexandre Pantoja, Aiemann Zahabi, and Raoni Barcelos in extending competitive careers past 35.