The match started with a vicious attack from Fale, who also used the help of Jado and Chase Owens during the early portion of the bout. Tanahashi would get short bursts of momentum on his side, but Fale ultimately shut him down thanks to his strength and size.
The momentum of the match-up changed when Tanahashi nailed a dragon screw. The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion would then target the leg of the Bullet Club member.
A short time later, Fale would get out of the figure four leg lock submission and drop Tanahashi instantly. Fale got the advantage back for a brief moment until Tanahashi came back with Twist N’ Shout that was followed up with a sling blade for a near fall.
The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion looked to put an end to the contest with a High Fly Flow; however, Jado would strike Tanahashi with a kendo stick while Owens distracted the referee. The attack allowed Fale to finally hit Grenade, but he only got a near fall for his troubles.
Fale then attempted Bad Luck Fall, but Tanahashi reversed out of the maneuver. However, Fale caught Tanahashi in a back slide for a three count. Bad Luck Fale’s G1 Climax tournament score is now 3-5 (6 points), whereas Hiroshi Tanahashi's record is now 4-4 (8 points).