Current Age and Birth Date
Robbie Lawler was born March 20, 1982, making him 42 years old as of 2025. He is a retired American mixed martial artist best known as a former UFC Welterweight Champion. His age places his major career achievements, including title wins and milestone fights, within a timeline spanning his 20s through his early 40s.
Age at Key Career Milestones
Rise to the UFC Title Shot
By age 30, Lawler had already compiled a professional record of 17–4–1 and earned a title opportunity. His championship run began at age 32 when he won the UFC Welterweight Title in July 2014.
Championship Defense and Legacy Fights
Lawler made his first title defense at age 33 and continued competing at the highest level into his late 30s. Fights such as his 2016 war with Rory MacDonald and his 2019 matchup with former champion Tyron Woodley occurred when he was 34 and 37 respectively.
Verifiable Age and Career Timeline
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 20, 1982 | Official UFC media and athletic commission records |
| Age at UFC 200 (July 2016) | 34 years old | Event press kit and results |
| UFC Welterweight Title Win | July 2014, age 32 | UFC official results |
| Final Fight (Retirement) | December 2021, age 39 | Post-fight announcement and retirement interview |
How Age Influences Fighter Trajectory
In MMA, physical recovery and reaction time often shift with age. For Lawler, his 20s and early 30s were marked by explosive finishes and title contention. By his mid to late 30s, while still competitive, his fight pace adjusted to prioritize experience and timing over raw athleticism.
Comparison with Other Eras
Compared to other welterweight champions, Lawler reached the title picture in his early 30s and defended successfully into his mid-30s. His career longevity, competing meaningfully from age 21 to 39, highlights durability and adaptability within a physically demanding sport.
Summary of Age-Related Context
Robbie Lawler is 42 years old, born March 20, 1982. He peaked as a champion in his early 30s and remained a top-tier competitor into his late 30s. His career reflects how age intersects with skill evolution, recovery capacity, and opportunity in elite MMA.