belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Marcus Aurelio and a six-time Brazilian state champion in the grappling sport, has claimed 9 of his 13 victories by way of submission. Still, he has shown his penchant for striking, bringing fans to their feet repeatedly with his explosive Muay Thai combinations.

A native of Fortaleza, Brazil, Gurgel entered The United States as an exchange student during high school and later became a citizen here. He withdrew from his college studies just one semester shy of graduation to pursue a career as an MMA fighter and trainer. Recently, he opened a gym in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Olson, whose Fresno State University wrestling achievements include qualifying for the NCAA Division I national tournament and capturing the Northern California Regional Championship, is looking to rebound from a first round submission (guillotine choke) he suffered in his last start at the hands of Eddie Yagin on May 8, 2009.

His start on the card will be the second of Olson's career in STRIKEFORCE. During the promotion's first event at SaveMart Center on October 7, 2006, Olson submitted Bobby Sanchez in the first round (1:58) of their matchup.

SaveMart Center doors will open for the STRIKEFORCE: Challengers event at 5:15 p.m. PT. The first live, non-televised, preliminary bout will begin at 6 p.m.

Strikeforce Challengers is a proving ground for up-and-coming MMA fighters. The series is designed to provide today's top prospects with the opportunity to step-up their level of competition and demonstrate their ability in a nationally televised event