This is the first year of AA moving to the Elite Choice concept for rewards, the program has never been in existence prior to this qualifying year. When the original Hyatt status matches went out there was was no Elite Choice program in play, EXPs just received SWUs, it was pretty much hard coded in.

Anyhow, the Elite Choice benefit terms and conditions are pretty clear. I literally provided you the source for the T&Cs and clearly AA intended to address status matches and challenges, given they literally dedicated the very first two points to spell it out. But it sounds like you've already decided you know the answer and are comfortable providing authoritative answers to the forum on the topic, so best of luck.

Regards