Undisputed UFC featherweight champion Conor McGregor will step up two divisions for his next fight when he faces Nate Diaz at welterweight in Las Vegas.

McGregor – who knocked out former champ Jose Aldo in 13 seconds to claim the belt in December – had been due to fight lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos in next week's UFC 196 main event, however, the latter was forced to pull out due to injury.

It did not take long for his replacement to be announced, Diaz stepping up to the challenge of facing McGregor in the octagon.

The fight will take place over five rounds at 170 pounds, meaning a big step up in weight for 27-year-old McGregor.

Diaz comes into the bout with two victories in his last three as he looks to climb the lightweight rankings and get his own shot at Dos Anjos.