Randy Couture became the oldest UFC champion by winning the heavyweight title at age 43.
Couture defeated Tim Sylvia by unanimous decision at UFC 68 on March 3, 2007, in Columbus, Ohio. The victory returned him to the UFC after a period away from the promotion and gave him a record-setting fifth UFC championship reign.
At 43 years and 255 days, Couture became the oldest champion in UFC history. He had already won titles in both the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions, making his career notable for success across weight classes and eras.
The age record refers to the time of winning a UFC championship, not necessarily the age at which a fighter made a first UFC appearance. Couture later defended the heavyweight belt against Gabriel Gonzaga before losing it to Brock Lesnar at UFC 91.