Ricky Burns has been crowned as the WBO lightweight champion, after holder Juan Manuel Marquez stepped up a weight.

The Scot held the interim title following a defeat of Michael Katsidis in November. But Marquez retained the status as champion, remaining in the lightweight division.

The latest WBO rankings show Marquez has now relinquished his crown and is now the number one challenger at welterweight.

He is now ranked behind champion Manny Pacquiao, who was victorious in a bout between the pair in November by majority decision.

“We knew Marquez would relinquish his title, so this is very good news,” Burns’ manager Alex Morrison told STV.

“This means Ricky is the champion of the world and also means will command more money for his fights.”

Burns will defend his title against Paulus Moses at Braehead on March 10. The Namibian boxer has won 28 of his 29 career bouts, 19 of which have come through knockout.

“Hopefully he will defend his title successfully against Moses in March,” Morrison added. “I envisage seeing Ricky at lightweight for the next couple of years.

“In time he will retire a wealthy and healthy man.”

IN DETAIL

• Ricky Burns to defend world title against Paulus Moses