Here is a brief of the situation

Flying DFW -> LGW early next week in coach. Am waitlisted for business class upgrade via VIP03 which expire 10/31.

VIP03 tickets were a gift from a friend at work. Since I am only waitlisted and the flight leaves in a couple of days I am going to give them to another person at work who can get a confirmed upgrade (though domestic, no status).

I assume I should call AA to have them not waitlist me correct? If not I fear I will get an angry gate agent who will put me in the middle seat with two linebacker types when I don't have a cert in hand.

Also - when I go to AA.com now I cannot see my seats anymore. Is this normal?