Took me a while to figure this new US Soccer scenario out. I think it's a matter of MLS demanding to have the superior position in all areas of pro soccer nationally. I remember when WNBA started up and blew out the previous women's pro basketball league (WBA?). Strange, however that MLSNext has no national TV contract while USLC is on ESPN. And, according to this blog (attached below), MLSNext is considered Division III of the US Soccer ladder, yet is the most direct route to MLS! I'm interested personally as Hawai'i politicians are promising a USL team as soon as the New Aloha Stadium is completed in 2025. Hope we get some former Zips (and local stars) in the islands! ☺
https://www.conductdetrimental.com/post/mls-and-the-usl-are-in-competition-whether-they-like-or-admit-it-or-not