For almost two decades now, the lightweight division has been the UFC’s marquee weight class. On the surface, the current state of the 155 lbs division might just look fine. A highly accomplished champion, Ilia Topuria , has recently ascended the throne by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Behind him stand contenders like Paddy Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan, and Justin Gaethje—each eager to face him for a title shot. Yet, there are some real issues currently developing in the division. And it’s not about 155 pounds lacking star power. It’s about the activity. Yes, lightweight simply isn’t flowing the way it once did, at least at the top. And to prove it, I’ll walk you through the entire timeline of arguably the most competitive UFC division ever.

In 2015, the division set a record

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