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Earlier this month, Cruz, who successfully defended his 135-pound title against his bitter rival Urijah Faber at UFC 199, revealed that he was open to facing the Brazilian if injury prevented featherweight Conor McGregor from competing in their unification fight.

Speaking to FOX Sports: "There's 145. The belt is up for grabs, between the interim belt and Notorious [Conor McGregor]. Who knows?

"Notorious could get hurt after this fight with Diaz and then be out for 6 or 7 months and then they'd need someone to fight for the interim title.

"I'm willing to jump in there and fight for the interim world title and bring two belts together. Why not? At 145, I would do that in a heartbeat."

(Image: GETTY)

Aldo, 26-2, is intrigued by the prospect of pitting his wits against 'The Dominator' and is willing to do battle with him once he regains the full featherweight title.

"I think it's great that Dominick is saying that. It's a new phase we're going through," the interim 145-pound title said.

"Conor did that, so everybody is trying to mirror him. I like that.

"I hope it happens, that this fight can happen in the future. But first, I need to become the undisputed champion.

"After that, we can challenged everyone and shoot at everyone because that helps your career and the financial side of it."