Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki will receive a boost this weekend with the return of pre-season title contender Dean Wilson. The 2011 250MX Champion suffered a deep laceration to the back of his knee at the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross season opener at Glen Helen, which required him to miss the last three rounds.

Wilson raced at Glen Helen last weekend at the weekly REM race, telling Racer X’s Eric Johnson afterwards: “I’ve kept up my fitness in the gym and all that, but I needed to race.”

He also added: “My speed feels pretty good but I’m still working on my fitness. I tested all day on Thursday and all the boys were pretty happy with my speed and I felt pretty good.”

Wilson still wasn't sure if his REM racing meant he was ready for 30 plus two at a National, but a few more days on the bike confirmed that he is. Although expectations are tempered for his return this weekend, Wilson hopes to get back into contention before the year is over. “I guess by the end of the series, I’d love to get some wins. That would be good for me.”