Historical milestones show increasing longevity in UFC's lower weight classes

A comprehensive timeline documents how fighters aged 35 and older have achieved increasing success in UFC's three lowest weight divisions over the past decade. Key milestones include Sara McMann becoming the first to achieve a three-fight win streak after 35 in 2017, Lauren Murphy reaching five straight wins after 35 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, and later the first 37-year-old male champion in February 2026. Valentina Shevchenko became the first 37-year-old overall to win a title in May 2025. Most recently, Raoni Barcelos in April 2026 became only the second male fighter in these divisions to achieve a five-fight win streak after turning 35.