Strikeforce returns to Las Vegas tonight for the 20th installment of its Challengers series. Watch the fights for a first look at some up-and-coming mixed martial arts fighters, all trying to earn a spot in a future main Strikeforce event—and possibly even the UFC.
Challengers 20 will feature plenty of new names, but the event will be headlined by two highly anticipated fights between Strikeforce veterans. Antwain “The Juggernaut” Britt (11-5) will take on Lumumba “Heavy Hands” Sayers (4-2) in a middleweight bout pitting Britt’s striking skills against Sayers’ grappling. And Olympic judo bronze medalist Ronda “Rowdy” Rousey will clash with Muay Thai specialist Julia “The Jewel” Budd. One of the most dominant women in all of MMA, Rousey will try to improve upon her 4-0 record and take another step toward a title shot. If anyone can douse her head of steam, it is Budd, who is a Canadian Muay Thai champion.
Also on the Strikeforce Challengers main card tonight:

• Anthony Smith (13-7) vs. Adlan Amagov (8-1-1)
• T J Cook (15-3) vs. Trevor Smith (8-1)
• Derek Brunson (8-0) vs. Nate James (14-7-1)

The undercard will feature:

• Matt Ricehouse vs. Bill Cooper
• Bobby Green vs. J.P. Reese
• Andreas Spang vs. Keith Berry
• David Hulett vs. Quinn Mulhern

To check out these future MMA stars, tune in Showtime at 11 p.m. EST tonight.
Photo: Strikeforce.com