Sorry, I agree with OP.

United blocks the middle seat next to high status folks. This is the opposite. Guarenteeing the high status folks won't have an open seat.

Sometimes the exit row is filled with 3 big guys (me being one). That's worse than bulkhead.

If people request it, that's another story. But to solicit it is wrong.

For many folks, the best seat is one without someone next to it.