Dark Defender Maps Out XRP Multi-Year Breakout Pattern to $18

Crypto analyst Dark Defender has presented a long-term technical outlook for XRP, emphasizing a recurring historical pattern that could shape the asset’s future price trajectory.

In a post on X, the analyst shared a chart based on the XRP/U.S. Dollar pair on the three-month timeframe, outlining what appears to be a large “cup” formation spanning several years.

The chart illustrates two major rounded bottom structures. The first formation, which occurred between 2014 and 2017, preceded a significant upward move that pushed XRP to a peak near $1.72. Dark Defender uses this earlier structure as a reference point, labeling it as a “historical pattern” that may now be repeating on a larger scale.

The second and current formation begins after the 2018 market peak and extends into the present cycle. According to the analyst, XRP is nearing the completion of this broader cup structure, with price action gradually curving upward toward resistance levels last tested during previous rallies.

Projected Breakout and $18.22 Target

Dark Defender identifies a key resistance zone around the $1.72 level, which aligns with the peak reached during the prior cycle. The chart shows XRP approaching this level again, suggesting that a breakout above it could confirm the continuation of the pattern.

Based on the measured move from the earlier formation, the analyst projects a potential upside target of $18.22. This figure is derived by applying the same magnitude of the previous breakout to the current structure. The chart also includes a “historical pattern” extension on the right side, visually indicating how the price could evolve if the pattern repeats.

At the time of the post, XRP is shown trading near $1.33, with recent candles indicating consolidation below the resistance zone. The analysis suggests that maintaining upward momentum toward the $1.72 level remains a critical step before any larger move can be validated.

Mixed Reactions From Market Participants

Responses to the post reflect a range of views regarding the analysis. One commenter, Christina, noted that XRP is currently fluctuating between $1.3 and $1.4 and stated that a confirmed breakout would require stronger trading volume and underlying fundamentals to support the move.

Another user, Cavalli Vapore, questioned the reliability of long-term projections, pointing out that many predictions in the space have historically failed to materialize. The comment expressed skepticism about high price targets derived from chart patterns.

A third response from a user identified as J took a bearish stance, suggesting that XRP could decline significantly, with a reference to a potential return to lower price levels.

Focus Remains on Key Resistance Levels

Dark Defender’s analysis places primary emphasis on the importance of historical price behavior and pattern repetition. The chart suggests that XRP is approaching a decisive phase, where interaction with the $1.72 resistance level could determine the next directional move.

While the projected target of $18.22 remains conditional on a confirmed breakout and sustained momentum, the analysis frames the current market structure as a continuation of a long-term technical setup.