One of the most competitive weight classes in all Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), the UFC Lightweight Division is a guaranteed firework display of agility, technique, and raw power time and again.

Covering fighters weighing between 146 to 155 pounds (roughly 66 to 70 kg), this fast-paced and dynamic division has been a consistent battleground for some of the sport's most memorable moments and iconic fighters.

From inception to the current champion, the lightweight category has been a showstopper of skill, determination, and unparalleled athleticism, and has brought us some of the most arguably exhilarating moments in MMA history.

In this post, we'll explore the history of the UFC Lightweight Champion, spotlight the current titleholder, and take a walk down memory lane to honor all the warriors who have held this prestigious title.

A Brief Glimpse into Lightweight History

Before UFC 31 on May 4, 2001, weight classes were less defined, and this led to a lot of unfortunate mismatches and unbalanced fights.

Recognizing the need for change and the introduction of regulations to ensure fairer fights, the division was born, and the UFC gained a new platform to showcase skill levels across different weight ranges.

Initially known as the Bantamweight Championship, the division was renamed to the Lightweight Division, setting the stage for decades of high-octane competition and transformations that reflect the very evolution of MMA itself, with champions like BJ Penn, Frankie Edgar, and Khabib Nurmagomedov etching their names in the annals of UFC history.

The Champions of the Lightweight Division

Much like the Light Heavyweight division, the UFC Lightweight Championship has always been a symbol of excellence, with the title changing hands among fighters who embody only the best in MMA.

Current UFC Lightweight Champion

As of 2024, Islam Makhachev reigns as the UFC Lightweight Champion.

Makhachev, a fighter with a background in Sambo, has demonstrated exceptional grappling skills and striking precision. His victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 by a triangle arm choke marked the beginning of his reign.

Since then, Makhachev has successfully defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 and UFC 294, showcasing his dominance in the division.

The Inaugural Champion

The first UFC Lightweight Champion was crowned in 2001, setting the stage for a lineage of legendary fighters. Jens Pulver, known as "Lil' Evil," was the first to hold the title.

The Reign of Nurmagomedov

Khabib Nurmagomedov, often regarded as the greatest lightweight of all time, dominated the division with an undefeated record of 29-0.

His grappling prowess and relentless pressure overwhelmed his opponents, leading to notable victories over Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje.

Khabib's legacy in the lightweight division is unmatched, and his retirement left a void that fighters like Islam Makhachev aim to fill.

All UFC Lightweight Champions

The UFC Lightweight division has seen 12 champions, each bringing their unique style and story to the octagon. From the striking finesse and showmanship of Conor McGregor to the fearsome grappling mastery of Khabib Nurmagomedov, the division is nothing short of a constant contest of champions, even when the belt isn’t on the line.

But only some of those champions battled hard enough to actually win the title and carve out their legacy. These are those warriors who have left their indelible mark on the division.