Which word can be used for the person who is challenged (in a contest)?

The words "challenge" and "challenger" are well-known, but is there such a term as "challengee" - as I read somewhere? In other words, what would be an appropriate term to describe the person challenged, for instance, to play a challenge match? Unsure whether to ask for the "antonym" of challenger.


Solution 1:

However Opponent is in my opinion a better word for the other person in a contest

Solution 2:

Challenger and Challenged (sometimes "the challenged")are perfectly acceptable.