Statistical analysis shows increasing longevity in UFC's three lightest divisions

A comprehensive historical analysis documents how longevity records in UFC's three lightest weight classes have progressively improved over the past decade. Key milestones include Sara McMann becoming the first fighter in these divisions to achieve a three-fight win streak after turning 35 in February 2017, and Lauren Murphy extending that to five fights in June 2021. Amanda Nunes became the first fighter across all lighter weight classes to win a title after 35 in June 2023, followed by Raquel Pennington in January 2024. Alexander Volkanovski made history as the first male fighter in these divisions to win a 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 overall. Most recently, Raoni Barcelos became the second male fighter after Aiemann Zahabi to achieve a five-fight win streak after turning 35, accomplishing this in April 2026.