The instant invention relates to an activation of a polymerization catalyst precursor by heat treatment comprising a support material and a catalyst precursor deposited thereon in a fluidized bed activator and to the use of the activated polymerization catalyst in the manufacture of polyolefins. The activation involves heat treatment in the presence of oxygen. After that activation the oxygen in the activator is replaced by inert gas via flushing until the fluidization gas emerging from the activator comprises oxygen in a maximum amount of up to 5 ppm. The catalyst prepared by that method is improved with respect to prevent reactor fouling during gas-phase polymerization or slurry polymerization either in stirred vessel or loop.