One of North Carolina's most accomplished high school wrestlers, Dusty McKinney was a four-time North Carolina High School Athletic Association state champion with a career record of 209-12 for East Gaston High School.

He was twice named the Outstanding Wrestler at the state tournament and NCMat.com named him Freshman of the Year in 2001, Sophomore of the Year in 2002 and North Carolina Wrestler of the Year in 2004.

McKinney earned multiple All-America honors and was a two-time Super 32 champion and runner-up at the National High School Coaches Association Senior Nationals.

He wrestled one year at George Mason University before beginning a 20-year career in the United States Navy. He earned All-America honors with the All-Navy wrestling team in 2008.

McKinney was a two-time national finalist on American Ninja Warrior and is one of the shortest athletes ever to conquer the 14-foot Warped Wall. He has also written multiple articles on leadership and professional development.

He will retire from the Navy with the rank of Lieutenant Commander.