2015-16: Did not wrestle, redshirted this year.

High School: Lighty was a two-sport athlete at Hartsville High School where he lettered in football and wrestling for the Red Foxes. On the mat, he was a three-time region champion, a two-time lower state champion and state placer, 2015 3A state runner-up, a three-time team MVP, a two-time region VI wrestler of the year and a two-time member of the all-state team. 

Personal: Son of Latrina Lighty and Sherman Thompson.