Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: WAS/TYO
Programs: UA 1K, AA EXP (3MM), DL PM, BONVOY TITANIUM, HYATT GLOBALIST, HILTON DIAMOND, IHG DIAMOND AMB, et al
Posts: 6,250
Definitely sounds like a voluntary downgrade to me.
Keep in mind that AAdvantage awards are relatively flexible provided you're willing to pay the $150 change fee. If you're set on sitting in J for the long segment on your return, perhaps consider looking for J availability using other routings (routing via NRT should be much easier to secure J seats).
-FlyerBeek