Jeff Monson returns on March 20 against Scott Barrett at XKL: 'Evolution'

Cocky and stocky submission specialist Jeff Monson (32-9) has agreed to make his Xtreme Kombat League (XKL) debut opposite heavyweight prospect Scott Barrett (9-1) at the promotion's inaugural event scheduled for March 20 at the Convocation Center from the campus of Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti.

Our amigos over at ULTMMA.com confirmed the pending match up earlier today.

Since his departure from the UFC, Monson has performed quite well against quality competition in lesser known events. In fact, the self-described anarchist has won seven of his last eight fights following a loss to Josh Barnett back in 2008.

After stealing a controversial unanimous decision victory against Roy "Big Country" Nelson at "March Badness," Monson made short work of Russian gladiator Sergei Kharitonov at DREAM 8, forcing the Russian to tap with a north-south choke early into round one.

The American Top Team (ATT) product also made headlines when he tossed his name into the hat to fight Fedor Emelianenko at Affliction: "Trilogy" on Aug. 1 when Josh Barnett was scratched because of a positive test for steroids.

"The Snowman" was last seen stepping in "Doo Doo," when he managed to squeak past John Brown via split decision at the 5150 Combat League event just last month.

Standing in his way is Barrett, who was one punch away from the end of his mixed martial arts career in November 2008 after suffering a detached retina while training for a December fight with Donavin Hawkey in South Africa.

The former wrestler underwent surgery to repair his ocular injury and returned to action, winning three of his next four contests and finishing all three of those victims by way of TKO. A victory over a well-traveled veteran like Monson would be a major statement from this talented up-and-comer.

XKL: "Evolution" will also feature a 155-pound bout between former Ultimate Fighter Corey Hill as he takes on Mark Holst for the XKL lightweight championship. Former UFC competitors Vinny Magalhaes and Ricco Rodriguez are also expected to appear.

Stay tuned to MMAmania.com for more updates to the upcoming "Evolution" card as they develop.