Vitali Klitschko is still considered the top heavyweight

Klitschko has not fought since beating Britain's Danny Williams in December.

And the Ukrainian 33-year-old could be stripped if he fails to set up a showdown with Rahman or Barrett - who fight on 13 August - by October.

Klitschko is still regarded as the kingpin of the heavyweight division despite his relative inactivity.

But the WBC's decision will be perceived as a victory for promoter Don King, who now has some control over three major top-weight belts.

Rahman and Barrett are backed by King, who also promotes IBF title holder Chris Byrd and WBA champion John Ruiz.