Timeline shows increasing longevity in UFC's three lightest divisions

A detailed timeline tracks how fighters aged 35 and older have progressively achieved greater success in UFC's three lightest divisions over the past decade. In February 2017, Sara McMann became the first fighter in these divisions to win three consecutive fights after turning 35. Lauren Murphy extended this to five consecutive wins in June 2021. Amanda Nunes broke through by becoming the first to win a title after 35 in June 2023, followed by Raquel Pennington. Alexander Volkanovski became the first male to achieve this in April 2025. Valentina Shevchenko then became the first 37-year-old champion in these divisions in May 2025, having also been the first 36-year-old female champion. Alexandre Pantoja became the second male champion over 35 in June 2025. Aiemann Zahabi became the first male to win five straight after turning 35 in October 2025. Volkanovski later became the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. Most recently, Raoni Barcelos joined Zahabi with a five-fight winning streak after 35 in April 2026. The progression demonstrates increasing competitiveness of older fighters in the lighter weight classes.