This study delves into the exploration of hybrid nanofluids within the context of a stretching cylinder, a domain that has captivated numerous researchers owing to its pivotal applications in industrial manufacturing processes, particularly in metal forming and stretch dies. The authors, recognizing the significance of these applications, have introduced a novel heat transfer fluid termed hybrid nanofluid, comprising molybdenum disulfide and carbon nanotubes suspended in the base liquid, water. The investigation focuses on the flow of the hybrid nanofluid within a stretching cylinder, considering various influential factors such as Joule heating, thermal radiation, porous medium, and magnetic field effects. To model this complex problem, we employed modified Navier–Stokes equations. Employing similarity transformations, assumptions, and non-dimensional parameters, the problem was effectively simplified. The MATLAB bvp4c technique, a well-established numerical approach, was then employed to solve the resulting mathematical formulation. Graphical representations are presented to illustrate various aspects of the flow, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the system. Comparisons are drawn among the flow characteristics of mono nanofluid, and the developed hybrid nanofluid. It is noted from the current analysis that the temperature strength increases with higher values of the magnetic field parameter, curvature parameter, radiation parameter, and Eckert number in both fluid cases. The Nusselt number increases with higher values of Prandtl number and thermal relaxation parameter. The identified patterns in velocity distribution, temperature strength, and fluid behavior provide a valuable foundation for optimizing thermal efficiency in diverse industrial applications. By leveraging the insights gained from this research, manufacturers can make informed decisions to enhance heat transfer processes, particularly in areas such as metal forming and stretch dies.