Marlow’s Michael Lightner Among Seven to Enter Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame

The Oklahoma Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame will induct seven individuals this fall, including Marlow native and wrestling standout Michael Lightner. The 2025 ceremony will be held Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Edmond.

Lightner, who carved out one of the most successful wrestling careers in Oklahoma history, will receive the Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award, joining a distinguished class of honorees.

A graduate of Marlow High School, Lightner built a remarkable prep record of 128-4, capturing four state championships between 1993 and 1996. Twice named Outstanding Wrestler at the state tournament, he went undefeated in both his sophomore and junior seasons, cementing his legacy as one of the Outlaws’ greatest athletes.

His success carried into college at the University of Oklahoma, where he became only the 10th Sooner to earn four All-American honors. He was a three-time NCAA finalist, winning the 2001 national championship at 141 pounds with a perfect 37-0 record. Lightner also claimed four Big 12 titles and closed his collegiate career with an impressive 144-16 record.

After his competitive career, Lightner devoted himself to coaching. From 2008 to 2022, he served on the OU wrestling staff, guiding multiple All-Americans, including national champions Cody Brewer and Kendric Maple. In 2021, he helped lead the Sooners to their first Big 12 team title in nearly two decades. Today, Lightner continues shaping young athletes as head coach at Noble High School.

Lightner will be honored alongside coaches Jack Hornbuckle, Dan Pettigrew, and John Smith; longtime wrestling reporter Mac Bentley; Colonel Kelly Laughlin, who will receive the Outstanding American Award; and Robert Nale, Jr., who will receive the Medal of Courage. In addition, the Roller family of Bixby will be recognized with the Madalene and Lee Roy Smith Family Award.

The Oct. 5 program begins with a 3 p.m. reception, followed by a banquet at 4 p.m. and the induction ceremony at 5. Tickets are $75 and may be purchased at NWHOF.org/OKChapter or by contacting Howard Seay at 918-639-8868.

The Lifetime Service Award recognizes coaches, officials, and contributors with at least 20 years of dedication to the sport. For Lightner, the honor not only reflects his achievements on the mat but also his lasting influence on Oklahoma wrestling.