I have an upcoming trip. Single PNR, 1K + one companion, return upgrade has already cleared. Outbound is ORD-ZRH on a K fare. I only have 80 plus points remaining though. I would like to apply the plus points for one pax and miles+cash for the other. It seems that splitting the PNR is the only way to do this.

I believe that splitting the PNR will not affect the already cleared J upgrade on the return, but will my companion receive my 1K status for priority with my PP on a split PNR? I've read anecdotally that if the request is applied before splitting the PNR the status will carry over, so should I apply MUA to both, split PNR, and then cancel my MUA and replace it with a PP waitlist?