Requesting upgrades

[frontcheck]

This type of "blackmail" is used every day at check-in, you hear the same thing
ABC airlines always allow me access to their lounge
DEF airlines never charge me for xs baggage
GHI airlines always through check me on a seperate ticket
JKL airlines always let me change restricted fares free of charge
etc etc etc.,
Upgrades usually happen in overbooked situations and even then it is in a controlled way starting with own airline frequent flyer golds then silver, followed by alliance carriers golds etc.
If he asks for an upgrade at check-in using the phrase you quoted I would sit him in a middle seat in last row of Y
LOL LOL