Wiktionary
take up the gauntlet
vb. (context idiomatic English) To accept a challenge.
Usage examples of "take up the gauntlet".
Every man is not a proper Champion for Truth, nor fit to take up the Gauntlet in the cause of Verity: many, from the ignorance of these Maximes, and an inconsiderate Zeal unto Truth, have too rashly charged the troops of Error, and remain as Trophies unto the enemies of Truth.
But he didn't say it aloud, and Jacqueline did not take up the gauntlet.
Soljenov would put Kirk down within range of a determined assault on his own fortress, to see if Kirk would take up the gauntlet—.