Michael Lightner was a four-time junior high state champion, a four-time high school state champion and a four-time All-American and national champion at the University of Oklahoma. 

A graduate of small-school powerhouse Marlow High School, Lightner compiled a 131-1 career record in winning state titles from 1993-1996. Undefeated in his sophomore and junior seasons, he twice was named Outstanding Wrestler of the state tournament.

Competing at the University of Oklahoma, Lightner became only the 10th Sooner wrestler to earn four All-American finishes. A three-time finalist, he won the 2001 national title at 141 lbs. to complete the season with a perfect 37-0 record. Lightner was also a four-time Big 12 Conference champion and ended his collegiate career with a 144-16 record.

Lightner coached at OU from 2008-2022 and currently serves as the wrestling coach at Noble High School. While at OU, Lightner coached several All-Americans including national champions Cody Brewer and Kendric Maple and in 2021, helped lead OU to its first Big 12 Conference championship since 2002.