I guess we can agree to disagree. He was told his seeding… for better or worse, he was told he's the 3 seed. Since he got 5th last year and only 3 who placed above him were returning, it's not that unreasonable. Regardless, if that's the seeding he was given, it shouldn't change. Especially which Charlie could no longer benefit from him doing well.
I totally agree with you on this point.
That said, it happened to Keith at the 2004 U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship. Keith came in third place in 2003 and was supposed to be seeded. One senior player went behind the curtain and told the T.D. and promoter to seed senior players, some of whom only competed in one senior tournament that entire year. Keith lost his seeding because of it, even though he was supposed to be seeded. I'll never forget it. If we hadn't spent all the money to go there, e.g., hotel reservations, entry fee, et cetera, I think I would have gone back home. I do remember how upset I was, more so than Keith, I think.
Mike should be commended for standing up for what is right.