JACKSON — The biggest moment of Jeremiah Riggs’ professional career as a mixed martial arts fighter could be at hand on Nov. 19 just 40 minutes from his home of Vicksburg. Riggs will be part of an eight-bout card with the last three to be televised nationally by Showtime as part of the Strikeforce Challengers series at the Jackson Convention Complex.

While Riggs’ bout with former training partner James Sharp likely will not be a part of the televised main event, it’s the most intriguing matchup of the undercard and without a doubt, the most important of his MMA career.

“I’m one fight away from a contract. That’s why this fight is so important,” Riggs said Tuesday during a news conference at the Jackson Convention Complex.

“If I can make a good impression in this fight, I can get that contract,” Riggs said. “It’s all about the win. Good or bad.”

During his one-minute remarks to the assorted media, Riggs gave the most articulate response on the importance of being a part of the first nationally televised fight event from Jackson. The card is the first in the state since a 2007 Showtime produced card at the Vicksburg Conventional Center.