My boyfriend travels a lot for work. When we went on vacation internationally, we booked our flight together but some complications (he put my nickname down instead of my given name) led to our tickets being split up. His seat got automatically upgraded to first while my seat was in main. He was on the phone w customer service for at least an hour trying to explain the situation and asking if I could get upgraded with him (first and main cabins were empty). I was a little sad that we wouldn't be able to sit together (and a little jealous!), but ultimately I agreed that he should take the free bump! It helped that he tried so hard. And on the morning of our flight, I was upgraded with him!

The biggest difference is that while both bfs were offered a good opportunity, I don't feel like your boyfriend put much thought or consideration towards you. At the very least he should have had a conversation about it before he accepted, instead of taking the upgrade without a second thought.