By Brian Knapp

The International Fight League has extended the contract of middleweight contender Matt Horwich through the conclusion of the 2008 season, according to Jerry Milani, public relations manager for the team-based promotion.

Horwich (20-9-1) will meet Benji Radach for the IFL middleweight championship at the IFL World Grand Prix on Saturday, Dec. 29 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. A product of Team Quest and protégé of former Olympic silver medalist Matt Lindland, Horwich submitted Brian Foster with a first-round armbar Nov. 3 to secure his place in the 185-pound final.

One of MMA’s most eccentric characters, Horwich holds submission wins over UFC veterans Josh Burkman, Jason MacDonald and Vernon White. He will enter his bout with Radach as a heavy underdog, though he has won his last two fights.