Professional career
Kotiev turned professional in 1991 and amassed a record of 22-1 (1 NC) before beating American boxer Leonard Townsend and winning the interim WBO welterweight title. He was eventually promoted to full champion after the incumbent champion Mihai Leu, retired from the sport. In his fourth title defense, he won a tightly contested bout against Puerto Rican contender Daniel Santos. He lost the rematch against Santos five months later. ==Professional boxing record==